newstodate.aero

Feb 08, 2023 (newstodate): With the opening of Greenland's new Atlantic airports in Nuuk and Ilulissat from the end of 2024, the future of the currently only international airport at Kangerlussuaq has been debated for years.
   According to Greenlandic media, leaked plans are however maturing for the continued operational status of the airport as a military base by the Danish Ministry of Defense, to become part of the coming new decision on Denmark's defense strategy for the years ahead.
   In September 2019, an agreement was inked between the governments of Denmark and Greenland to the effect that Kangerlussuaq Airport will remain in service, with the Danish Ministry of Defense to fund the operation.
   To secure the future of Kangerlussuaq Airport in the longer term will however require massive maintenance and reconstruction works on the airport's 2,500 m runway that is impacted by changes in the permafrost conditions causing cracks in the runway surface.
   Kangerlussuaq Airport may also receive direct US investments, reflecting its importance for US military positioning in the Arctic region that is gaining importance as more maritime lanes are opening, while the region's strategic position is attracting increased attention from many sides.