Kulusuk Airport

Kulusuk Airport is not just a runway on a rocky island; it is the true gateway to the wild and mesmerising world of East Greenland. Located amidst rugged mountains and icy fjords, it serves as the first point of contact with the Arctic nature for most travellers arriving in this region. Landing here is an adventure in itself, offering panoramic views of drifting icebergs and boundless expanses.

Despite its modest size and gravel runway, Kulusuk Airport plays a key role in the region's transport system. It is the main hub for further travel throughout East Greenland. It is from here that Air Greenland helicopters depart for Tasiilaq—the largest town on the east coast—as well as other remote settlements that are impossible to reach by land.

The main feature of the airport is its strategic importance and unique location. It connects the isolated eastern coast with the western part of Greenland and the outside world via regular flights from Iceland. The terminal building is very compact and offers only basic amenities, which only emphasizes the atmosphere of a remote Arctic outpost. For travellers, this is not a disadvantage, but part of the authentic experience of getting to know the harsh and beautiful Greenland.

Below you will find contact information for Kulusuk Airport (KUS). We recommend verifying the data on official resources before your trip.

• Official Website: The airport is managed by Mittarfeqarfiit (Greenland Airports). All essential information can be found on their website: www.mit.gl.
• Information Desk Phone: +299 98 69 88.
• Airport Address: Kulusuk Airport, Boks 1010, 3915 Kulusuk, Greenland.
• Email: For communication, it is recommended to use the contact form on the official Mittarfeqarfiit website, as the direct airport email address is not always available for general public use.
• Social Media: Official news and updates are published on Mittarfeqarfiit's social media pages, for example, on Facebook.
• Lost Luggage Information: In case of loss or damage to luggage, you should immediately contact your airline's representative at the airport. If a representative is not present, please contact the general airport information desk.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general inquiries and assistance, you may call the main airport telephone number.

Kulusuk Airport (KUS) is located approximately 3 kilometres from the settlement of the same name, Kulusuk, serving as the main aerial gateway for the entire region. Due to the unique location and compact size of the village, the transport system here differs significantly from standard urban infrastructure, and reaching the airport requires specific, sometimes exotic methods.

Public Transport

It is important to note immediately that there is a complete absence of regular public transport, such as buses, trains, or metro services in Kulusuk. All logistics are based on private and pre-arranged transport.

Transfers, Taxi, and Walking Route

The most reliable and popular way to get from the airport to the settlement and back is a transfer from a hotel or tour operator. Typically, when booking accommodation or a tour, a meet-and-greet at the airport is already included in the price. Transport is provided via 4x4 vehicles or special minibuses. It is strongly recommended to arrange your transfer in advance.

In good weather, and if you are travelling light, the 3 km distance can be covered on foot. Such a walk will take about 30-45 minutes and will be an excellent start to your acquaintance with the rugged beauty of Greenland. The road is unpaved (gravel), so ensure you have comfortable and sturdy footwear. In winter, the transfer can turn into a real adventure—on a snowmobile or even a dog sled.

The concept of a "taxi" in Kulusuk is nominal. You will not find an official taxi service here, but sometimes it is possible to agree with local residents for private transport for a fee. However, this is not the most reliable option.

Car Rental and Parking

Services for car rental are unavailable in Kulusuk. The road network is extremely limited, and a personal vehicle is not needed here. for the same reason, the issue of parking at the airport is not relevant for tourists—there is no dedicated guarded parking lot, only a small area for service vehicles.

Travel Time and Cost

• By Car (Transfer): The trip will take 5–10 minutes.
• On Foot: Approximately 30–45 minutes.
• Cost: The walking route is free. The price of a transfer is most often included in the tour package. If booked separately, the cost should be checked with your hotel or guide, as it can be significant due to the remoteness of the region.

Main Tip: Always organise your transfer from Kulusuk Airport in advance. This will allow you to avoid difficulties and begin your journey through East Greenland with comfort.

Kulusuk Airport (KUS) is a small but strategically important air gateway to East Greenland. Its structure is extremely simple and focused on functionality, which is typical for Arctic airports. There is only one terminal here, which handles all flights without exception—both domestic and international (mainly from Iceland).

The terminal is a compact single-storey building, where all key zones are located in one common hall. The airport layout is intuitive, and it is practically impossible to get lost here. Immediately upon entry, you find yourself in the main space, where the check-in counters, waiting area, and baggage claim point are located. Since there is only one terminal, there is no need to worry about transfers between buildings—all operations take place in one location.

The departure and arrival zones here are rather nominal. The Departure Zone consists of a few check-in counters and a small waiting hall with a boarding gate. The Arrival Zone is effectively a door leading from the airfield into the main hall, where passengers collect their luggage from a cart or belt near the exit. Amenities in the terminal are basic: there are toilets and a small seating area. Do not expect Duty Free shops or a variety of cafes here—the airport performs a strictly transport-related function.

Check-in and security procedures usually proceed very quickly due to low passenger traffic. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 1.5–2 hours before departure. This is due not so much to queues, but to the changeable weather, which can make adjustments to the schedule. The main advice for navigation is simple: everything you need is within sight. Kulusuk Airport is not about the comfort of megacities, but about a reliable start for your adventure in the world of ice and fjords.

The history of Kulusuk Airport (KUS) is inextricably linked with the Cold War era. It was not originally built for civilian needs. Its construction began in 1956 by the US military as part of the creation of a network of radar stations—the so-called Distant Early Warning Line (DEW Line). This system was intended to track bombers over the polar region.

The airport, or rather, the military base with a runway, was put into operation in 1958 and received the code name DYE-4. For several decades, it served as an important link in the defence system of North America. With the end of the Cold War, the strategic importance of the base diminished, and in the early 1990s, the US Air Force handed the facility over to the administration of Greenland.

From that moment, a new stage in the life of the airport began—its transformation into a key civilian transport hub for the entire east coast of the island. Today, Kulusuk Airport serves as the region's main air gateway, providing a link to the rest of Greenland via domestic flights and to the world via regular connections with Iceland. It plays a crucial role not only for local residents but also for the growing flow of tourists seeking to see the unique nature of East Greenland.

Among the interesting facts is that the airport's runway remains gravel to this day, which is characteristic of many remote airfields in the Arctic. Thus, a former secret military facility has turned into a vital artery supporting the life and development of one of the most isolated corners of the planet.

Kulusuk Airport (KUS) is a small but vital transport hub for East Greenland, and its infrastructure reflects its size and remote location. Services here are quite basic but cover the essential needs of travellers. Inside the terminal building, there is a small cafe where you can buy hot drinks, sandwiches, and snacks. There is also a small shop offering souvenirs, postcards, and necessities. One should not expect large restaurants or duty-free shopping facilities here.

A general waiting hall is provided for passengers. There are no specialised VIP lounges or business lounges at the airport. Internet connectivity options are limited: Wi-Fi may be available for a fee, but its speed and stability are not guaranteed. The number of power outlets for charging electronic devices is also small, so it is recommended to carry a portable power bank. There are no bank branches or currency exchange points at the airport; all financial transactions are best completed in advance in larger cities.

Services for passengers with special needs are provided at a basic level. The airport has facilities for first aid, but for serious cases, it is necessary to contact medical institutions outside the airport. For passengers with children, changing tables may be available in the restrooms, but there are no separate mother and child rooms. Passengers with reduced mobility are advised to notify their airline in advance regarding the need for special assistance to ensure comfortable movement through the terminal.

There are no hotels directly within the airport building. The main and closest option for accommodation is Hotel Kulusuk, which is located a few minutes' walk from the terminal and is a popular stopover for tourists and transit passengers. Specialised business centres or conference rooms are absent at Kulusuk Airport, as it is oriented exclusively towards servicing passenger transport.

When planning a trip through Kulusuk, it is important to understand that the airport (KUS) is a small regional transport hub with a basic set of services. Dining options here are very limited and correspond to the size and remoteness of the airport.

In the airport's single terminal, there is typically a small cafeteria or kiosk operating. It is located in the general area before security control (landside). Here, travellers can find a basic selection of beverages, such as coffee, tea, and soft drinks, as well as simple snacks: crisps, chocolate bars, and possibly pre-packed sandwiches or pastries. Do not expect full-service restaurants, international coffee chains, or fine dining.

Exotic local Greenlandic dishes or specialised dietary menus (such as Halal, vegetarian, or gluten-free) are, unfortunately, not represented at the airport. The assortment is oriented towards the simplest and quickest snacks. Prices for food and drinks can be quite high, which is characteristic of Greenland in general due to logistical challenges.

The cafeteria's operating hours are directly linked to the flight schedule. Usually, it opens shortly before a departure and closes soon after the aircraft takes off. Therefore, if your flight is delayed or you arrive at a non-flight time, the kiosk may be closed. It is strongly recommended to eat beforehand prior to travelling to the airport or to bring your own snacks, especially if you have specific dietary requirements.

Traveling through the airport of Kulusuk is an adventure in itself, as it serves as the gateway to the amazing world of East Greenland. To make your experience as comfortable as possible, it is worth considering several features of this unique place. We recommend arriving at the airport well in advance, at least 2-3 hours before departure. Weather conditions here can be unpredictable, and it is better to have a buffer of time in case of unforeseen circumstances. Furthermore, the airport infrastructure is small, so arriving early will help you orient yourself calmly.

The check-in and security control process in Kulusuk usually proceeds faster than in major international hubs, but one should not be complacent. Keep your passport, visa (if required), and boarding pass ready. One of the most valuable tips for flights in Greenland is to choose a window seat. The views of icebergs, glaciers, and fjords opening up from above are truly unforgettable and will become one of the brightest impressions of the entire trip.

Standard international rules apply to hand luggage: liquids in containers up to 100 ml, and no sharp objects. However, we strongly advise packing a warm sweater or fleece jacket in your hand luggage, even if you are flying in summer. The weather can change abruptly. A portable power bank for gadgets and a light snack will also be useful, as the selection within the airport itself may be limited.

For passengers with connections, it is important to remember that Kulusuk is a hub for further flights within the region, often operated by helicopters. Check with your airline whether you need to collect your luggage and check it in again. Plan sufficient time for the transfer in advance. Customs control upon arrival from outside Greenland is standard; simply follow the signs and be ready to present documents upon request.

To save time, check in for your flight online if possible. Foresight will help save money: purchase souvenirs, snacks, and necessities in advance, as prices in airport shops and generally in remote settlements of Greenland are quite high.

Flight delays due to weather are a common occurrence in Greenland. If your flight is delayed, remain calm. Contact an airline representative for information on the flight status and possible options (for example, provision of meals or accommodation during a long delay). Have a book, downloaded films, or music with you. This will help pass the waiting time, which can be spent watching the harsh and majestic nature right from the terminal windows.