Traveling from the UK to Greenland is an extraordinary journey that takes you from the busy cities of England or Scotland to the raw and rugged landscapes of the Arctic. While not the most commonly traveled route, flights from the United Kingdom to Greenland are steadily gaining attention from adventure seekers, researchers, nature enthusiasts, and travelers looking for a unique experience. Understanding the available routes, travel times, and connection options helps make planning a UK to Greenland trip smooth and efficient.
Overview of Flights from UK to Greenland
There are currently no direct flights from the UK to Greenland. However, several convenient connecting options are available through European hubs, particularly Iceland and Denmark. Most flights to Greenland originate from Reykjavik or Copenhagen, making them the primary transit points for UK travelers.
Major UK airports like London Heathrow (LHR), London Gatwick (LGW), Manchester (MAN), and Edinburgh (EDI) offer frequent flights to these connecting cities, allowing relatively easy access to Greenland despite the lack of direct service.
Popular Connecting Routes
Via Iceland
Flying through Iceland is one of the most efficient and scenic ways to reach Greenland. Icelandair and its subsidiary Air Iceland Connect (now integrated into Icelandair’s domestic operations) offer seasonal and regular flights from Reykjavik to various destinations in Greenland.
Common route options include:
- UK (LHR, LGW, MAN) → Reykjavik (KEF) → Nuuk (GOH)
- UK → Reykjavik → Ilulissat (JAV)
- UK → Reykjavik → Kangerlussuaq (SFJ)
This route is ideal for those interested in exploring Greenland’s west coast, home to some of the country’s most iconic fjords, glaciers, and cultural sites.
Via Denmark
Another key route involves flying via Copenhagen. As Greenland is an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, many flights to Greenland originate from Copenhagen Airport (CPH). Airlines such as Air Greenland operate regular services between Copenhagen and cities like Nuuk and Kangerlussuaq.
Typical travel path:
- UK → Copenhagen → Nuuk
- UK → Copenhagen → Kangerlussuaq
This route is ideal for travelers who may want to spend some time in Denmark before continuing on to Greenland or who prefer larger international airports for connections.
Airlines Operating UK to Greenland Routes
While no single airline flies directly from the UK to Greenland, the following airlines facilitate the journey via code-shared or independent flights:
- Icelandair: Flies from multiple UK cities to Reykjavik with onward flights to Greenland.
- Air Greenland: Offers direct service between Copenhagen and Greenland’s major airports.
- SAS (Scandinavian Airlines): Connects UK airports to Copenhagen.
- British Airways: Offers UK to Iceland and UK to Denmark flights for connecting options.
When booking, it’s helpful to choose airlines within the same alliance or partner networks to ensure smoother transfers and coordinated luggage handling.
Flight Duration and Transit Times
The total travel time from the UK to Greenland depends largely on the route and layover durations. Below are average times for each stage of the journey:
- UK to Reykjavik: Approx. 3 hours
- UK to Copenhagen: Approx. 2 hours
- Reykjavik to Nuuk: Approx. 3.5 hours
- Copenhagen to Nuuk: Approx. 4.5 to 5 hours
Including layovers, the full journey from the UK to Greenland typically ranges from 9 to 15 hours, depending on connection times and the final destination within Greenland.
Major Destinations in Greenland
Greenland is a vast land with limited yet important airports that serve as entry points for international visitors. Each destination offers a unique aspect of Greenlandic culture and landscape.
Nuuk (GOH)
Greenland’s capital city, Nuuk, is a cultural and economic hub. It features modern amenities, museums, and restaurants while offering access to fjords, whales, and mountains.
Ilulissat (JAV)
Famous for the Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this town is one of Greenland’s top tourist spots for viewing glaciers and icebergs.
Kangerlussuaq (SFJ)
Often used as a transit airport, Kangerlussuaq has the longest runway in Greenland and serves as a main hub for connections to other towns and remote areas.
Narsarsuaq (UAK)
Located in South Greenland, this area is rich in Viking history and offers beautiful green landscapes during the summer months.
Best Time to Book UK to Greenland Flights
Greenland has a limited tourist season due to extreme weather conditions. The most popular time to visit is during the summer months from June to August, when the weather is milder, and outdoor activities like hiking, sailing, and iceberg tours are available.
Tips for Booking Flights:
- Book at least 2 to 3 months in advance during summer
- Check for seasonal promotions with Icelandair and Air Greenland
- Be flexible with travel dates for better prices
- Look for multi-city tickets that allow stopovers in Iceland or Denmark
Winter travel is possible but requires careful planning due to limited flights and extreme cold. However, it’s also the season for viewing the Northern Lights and dog sledding.
Visa and Entry Requirements
For UK travelers, Greenland follows Danish visa policy. As Greenland is not part of the Schengen Area, travelers must have a visa specifically for Greenland if one is required. UK citizens can enter Greenland visa-free for short stays, but it’s recommended to check the latest travel guidelines before departure.
Travel insurance, especially for medical evacuation, is highly recommended due to Greenland’s remote location and limited healthcare facilities.
Tips for a Smooth Journey
- Layer your clothing, even in summer Greenland’s weather can change quickly.
- Pre-book accommodations and tours, especially in high season.
- Bring essential items shops in Greenland are limited and expensive.
- Ensure your camera is ready landscapes are incredibly photogenic.
- Respect local customs and preserve the natural environment.
Though there are no direct UK to Greenland flights, the route is very much accessible through smart connections via Iceland or Denmark. These connecting hubs offer flexible options and allow travelers to experience multiple cultures in one trip. Whether you are drawn to the icy fjords of Ilulissat or the quiet charm of Nuuk, reaching Greenland from the UK is a journey worth taking. With proper planning and awareness of flight routes and conditions, your adventure to one of the world’s most remote and stunning destinations can begin smoothly and memorably.