SAS returns to Greenland after 20-year hiatus with new route to Nuuk

Scandinavian Airlines launches summer service from Copenhagen to the Arctic capital

Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) has relaunched direct flights between Copenhagen and Nuuk, reconnecting Greenland to mainland Europe by air for the first time in over two decades. The inaugural flight departed today, marking the beginning of a new seasonal route that reinforces Copenhagen’s role as the primary international hub for the Arctic region.

The service, operating three times a week during the summer season, coincides with the opening of Nuuk’s new international airport — a major infrastructure development aimed at supporting tourism, trade, and Greenland’s broader integration with global travel networks.

SAS says the new connection offers travellers rare access to one of the world’s most unspoiled and culturally distinct destinations, while also supporting local economic development and mobility.

“This route reflects our broader ambition: to be a resilient, adaptable, and collaborative airline for the future,” said Anko van der Werff, President & CEO of SAS. “Whether travelling for family, work, or discovery, our role is to enable purposeful journeys, with respect and responsibility. And as the most punctual airline in the world, we are proud to bring that reliability to a route as meaningful as this one.”

A Strategic Arctic Connection

The reintroduction of the route follows growing interest in Greenland as a global destination. Earlier this year, National Geographic listed Greenland among its “Best of the World” picks for 2025, citing its dramatic natural landscapes and cultural richness. Nuuk, the island’s capital, has emerged as a gateway for Arctic exploration and sustainable tourism.

The new SAS service was developed in close partnership with Greenlandic stakeholders, including Air Greenland, and supports SAS’ broader North Atlantic strategy — one that also includes expanded alliances through SkyTeam and joint ventures with Air France-KLM.

Copenhagen as a Global Bridge

The launch also underscores Copenhagen Airport’s importance as a regional aviation hub, offering streamlined connections across Scandinavia and onward to Europe, North America, and Asia. For SAS, which is transforming into a more agile, premium-focused carrier, Copenhagen remains central to its operational and strategic ambitions.

SAS says the route to Nuuk embodies its commitment to “long-term, purposeful connectivity” and reflects the airline’s focus on reliability, sustainability, and international collaboration.