Narsarsuaq Airport

Narsarsuaq Airport (UAK) is not just a runway amidst the fjords, but a true gateway to the world of glaciers, Vikings, and the incredible nature of South Greenland. Located deep within the picturesque Tunulliarfik Fjord, it welcomes travellers with some of the most breathtaking landing views imaginable. Formerly an American military airbase during World War II, today it is a key transport hub opening access to unique routes for hiking and sea excursions.

The main feature of Narsarsuaq Airport is its unique location and history. It is one of the few airports in Greenland capable of receiving large aircraft thanks to the long runway remaining from military times. The terminal here is small and cozy, creating an almost home-like atmosphere. Despite its modest size, the airport building and its vicinity have everything necessary to start a journey: a tourist information desk, a café, and a souvenir shop in the neighbouring hotel.

Another advantage is its strategic importance for tourism. It is from here that helicopter flights and boat transfers start to neighbouring settlements, such as Qaqortoq and Narsaq, as well as to the famous ruins of Viking settlements included in the UNESCO World Heritage list. Hiking trails leading to observation decks with views of glaciers and mountains begin right from the airport, making it an ideal starting point for outdoor enthusiasts.

Below you will find current contact information for Narsarsuaq Airport (UAK), which will help you plan your trip and resolve any questions that may arise.

• Official Website: www.mit.gl. The airport is managed by Mittarfeqarfiit (Greenland Airports); you can find up-to-date information on flights and services on their website.
• Information Desk Phone: +299 66 52 52.
• Airport Address: Narsarsuaq Airport, 3923, Narsarsuaq, Greenland.
• Email: For general inquiries, you can contact the operator Mittarfeqarfiit via email: info@mit.gl.
• Social Media: Current news and updates can be followed on the official Mittarfeqarfiit Facebook page.
• Lost Luggage Information: In case of lost luggage, you must first contact your airline's representative. If your belongings were lost within the airport premises, please contact the information service via the main phone number.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For all questions related to your stay at the airport, you can contact the information desk by phone: +299 66 52 52.

Narsarsuaq Airport (UAK) is unique in its location—it is situated right in the settlement of the same name, making it incredibly accessible. Unlike large metropolises, there is no extensive public transport network here, but getting to your hotel or guesthouse will be effortless. The main modes of transport in Narsarsuaq reflect its compactness and remoteness.

On Foot. This is the most common and logical way to get from the terminal to anywhere in the settlement. Since everything is within walking distance, a walk to your accommodation will take from 5 to 15 minutes. It is completely free and allows you to immediately immerse yourself in the atmosphere of this amazing corner of Greenland.

Hotel Transfer. If you have a lot of luggage or prefer comfort, a transfer is the best solution. Most hotels and tour operators offer airport pick-up. It is extremely important to arrange this service in advance when booking your accommodation or tour. There are no classic taxi services here that can be called by phone or found at a stand. The cost of the transfer is often included in the service package or is nominal.

Car Rental and Parking. Renting a car in Narsarsuaq is not a practical option for tourists. The road network is limited to the settlement itself, and there are no land connections to other settlements. The main "highways" here are waterways. Consequently, the issue of parking at the airport for arriving passengers is generally irrelevant. Short-term parking is available but is used primarily by local residents.

Travel to Other Towns. It is important to understand that Narsarsuaq Airport is the main transport hub of South Greenland. If your final destination is the towns of Qaqortoq, Narsaq, or Igaliku, your onward journey from the airport will continue by boat or helicopter. The harbour and helipad are located in the immediate vicinity of the terminal. Tickets for these modes of transport must be booked well in advance through the airline or local tour operators.

Narsarsuaq Airport (UAK) is a small but important transport hub in the south of Greenland. Its layout is characterized by simplicity and functionality, which is typical for airports in remote regions. You will not have to worry about complex navigation, as everything here is intuitive.

Narsarsuaq Airport has only one passenger terminal, which serves both domestic and international flights. It is a compact building where all main zones are located within walking distance of each other. Since there is only one terminal, there is absolutely no need for transfers between buildings or the use of shuttles.

The terminal layout is extremely simple. Immediately upon entering, you find yourself in the main hall, where the airline check-in counters and the waiting area are located. The arrival and departure zones are also located in this same building. The arrival hall is a small section where passengers enter immediately after disembarking from the aircraft; the baggage claim belt is also located here. The departure zone includes a security checkpoint and a small waiting lounge before boarding the flight.

Passing through all pre-flight formalities usually does not take much time due to the low passenger traffic. Check-in and security screening proceed quite quickly. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 1.5-2 hours before departure, especially during the peak tourist season, to check in luggage and go through all procedures without rushing. Navigation inside the terminal will not cause difficulties—all signs are clear, and the staff is always ready to help.

The history of Narsarsuaq Airport (UAK) is inextricably linked with the events of World War II. Its construction was begun by the US Army in the summer of 1941, even before the country officially entered the war. Located in a strategically important place in the south of Greenland, the airfield received the code name Bluie West One (BW-1) and became a key link in the North Atlantic air ferry route.

During the war years, thousands of aircraft—bombers, fighters, and transport planes—passed through BW-1, heading from North America to Great Britain. The airfield served as a vital point for refuelling and meteorological reports, ensuring the transfer of aviation to the European theatre of operations. At peak times, up to 4,000 personnel were stationed at the base simultaneously. This was the time of its greatest activity and strategic significance.

After the end of World War II and during the Cold War, the airfield continued to be used by the US Air Force. However, its military importance gradually diminished, and it began to serve civilian flights. In 1958, following a plane crash, Denmark and the USA signed an agreement under which the airport became jointly managed and opened for regular civil aviation, becoming the main aerial gateway for the southern part of the island.

Today, Narsarsuaq Airport is primarily a civil facility, although its military past can still be discerned in the architecture of some buildings. It plays a crucial role in the life of the region, connecting Narsarsuaq and nearby settlements with the rest of the world. An interesting fact: due to its location deep in a fjord surrounded by mountains, landing at the airport is considered one of the most picturesque and technically challenging in the world, requiring special skill from pilots.

Narsarsuaq Airport (UAK) acts as the main air gateway to South Greenland. Given its location and relatively small passenger traffic, the airport offers a basic but sufficient set of services for a comfortable wait for your flight. It is a compact and functional terminal where everything necessary is within walking distance.

Inside the terminal, there is a cafeteria where you can have a snack, drink hot coffee, or enjoy soft drinks before departure. The assortment usually includes sandwiches, pastries, and light snacks. A small shop is also located here, where you can purchase souvenirs, postcards, and essential items. The selection is not comparable to large airports, but it allows you to buy memorable gifts.

A waiting lounge is available for passengers. There are no specialized VIP lounges here. In the airport building, you can find charging stations for electronic devices. Access to Wi-Fi may be limited or provided for a fee, which is typical for many remote regions. Regarding financial services, there may be an ATM in the airport, but it is better to take care of currency exchange in advance in larger settlements.

The airport is equipped to serve passengers with reduced mobility; however, to receive assistance with boarding and moving through the terminal, it is strongly recommended to notify your airline in advance. For passengers with small children, changing tables may be provided in the restrooms. There are no special play areas. Medical assistance is limited to first aid provided by staff; the nearest medical facility is located in the settlement.

One of the unique features is the Hotel Narsarsuaq, which is located right next to the terminal building. This makes it an ideal option for those with an early departure, late arrival, or a long layover. Business travellers can check for conference services directly at the hotel, as there are no dedicated business centres within the airport itself.

Narsarsuaq Airport (UAK) is a compact regional aviation hub, and dining options here correspond to its size. Do not expect a wide variety of restaurants, but satisfying your hunger or having a coffee before departure is certainly possible.

The main and, in fact, the only place for dining is the cafeteria in the main terminal hall. It is located in the public area, before passing through security control. Here, travellers are offered a standard set of services: hot drinks (coffee, tea), soft drinks, pastries, sandwiches, and light snacks. This is an ideal place for a quick bite.

For those who want a more substantial meal, the cafeteria can offer simple hot dishes, such as the soup of the day, burgers, or Danish hot dogs. Although you are in Greenland, exotic local dishes are usually not on the menu. However, sometimes you can find a sandwich with Greenlandic shrimp—a popular local snack. Prices at the airport, as elsewhere in the country, are quite high due to logistical features.

The cafeteria operates according to the flight schedule—it opens before departures and closes after the last plane departs. Specialized dietary options (vegan, gluten-free, Halal) are practically absent here. Travellers with strict dietary requirements are strongly advised to carry snacks with them.

Key point: all opportunities to buy food and drinks are located before the pre-flight security screening zone (landside). After passing control and entering the departure zone ("airside"), there are no cafés or vending machines. Therefore, if you are hungry, be sure to eat before you head to your boarding gate.

To ensure your journey through Narsarsuaq Airport goes as smoothly as possible, take advantage of our tips. The airport in Narsarsuaq is a key transport hub for South Greenland, and knowing its features will help avoid unnecessary stress.

Arrival Time and Check-in. Despite the modest size of the airport, it is recommended to arrive 2 hours before departure, especially if your flight is international. This time is sufficient to pass check-in and security control without rushing. Procedures here usually go faster than in large airports, but it is better to have a time buffer.

Seat Selection and Hand Luggage. When checking in online, be sure to choose a window seat. The views of the fjords, icebergs, and the Greenland Ice Sheet that open up during takeoff and landing are an unforgettable part of the adventure. In your hand luggage, besides standard restrictions on liquids (up to 100 ml) and sharp objects, pack a warm sweater or jacket—the weather can change drastically while you wait for boarding.

Transfers and Customs. Narsarsuaq often serves as a transfer point for domestic flights operated by small planes or helicopters. The transfer process is usually well organized; follow the signs and staff instructions. If you are arriving from outside Greenland (for example, from Denmark or Iceland), you will have to go through customs control. The procedure is standard, but be prepared to present your belongings for inspection if required.

Saving Money and Useful Hacks. To save money, check in for your flight online and gather all necessary documents in advance. Prices for food and drinks at the airport can be high, so it is worth bringing a small snack with you. Also, remember that Wi-Fi may be paid or unavailable, so download all necessary information to your devices beforehand.

Flight Delays. The most important advice for those travelling around Greenland is to be prepared for delays. The weather here is the main conductor of air traffic. Fog, strong wind, or snowfall can lead to the rescheduling or cancellation of a flight for several hours or even days. Remain calm, stay in touch with airline representatives, and ensure that your travel insurance covers such cases. Flexibility in plans is your best friend when travelling through this amazing region.