Challenges in Tasiilaq’s Helicopter Service Highlighted
Iddimanngiiu Jensen Bianco, the Minister for Housing, Infrastructure, Outlying Districts, and Preparedness, acknowledged the difficulties surrounding the helicopter service in the Tasiilaq region. Speaking on the matter, she confirmed that the existing service contract—binding until the end of 2030—means there are no immediate plans to negotiate a new agreement.
This information comes in response to inquiries made by Gerth Mikaelsen, a member of the Inatsisartut from the Naleraq party. His questions, submitted under clause 37, shed light on the current state of service contracts affecting Tasiilaq and the broader East Greenland area.
Local businesses are feeling the pinch of transportation difficulties, with both Mikaelsen and the Tasiilaq Employers’ Association urging swift action to address what they see as a pressing issue.
Priority for East Greenland
According to Minister Bianco, Air Greenland is actively working to resolve the technical challenges impacting operations and is committed to stabilizing its service in line with existing contractual obligations.
“Naalakkersuisut is dedicated to enhancing traffic services in East Greenland,” Bianco stated, adding that her department is examining various avenues for improvement within the current financial and operational confines.
Mikaelsen also pressed for clarity on whether the government plans to negotiate a new transportation agreement for flights connecting Nuuk, Kulusuk, and Iceland. While no decision has yet been reached on this front, Minister Bianco reiterated that improving transportation in East Greenland remains a priority for the government.
She noted that several conditions need to be satisfied for a new traffic agreement to be considered, including addressing needs that are not being met through commercial avenues or existing contracts.
Future Airport in Tasiilaq
Naalakkersuisut has committed to pursuing the development of an airport in Tasiilaq, with two million kroner allocated in the Finance Act for studies and planning. A service agreement has already been established with the Icelandic airline Norlandair, which began operations on a flight route between Nerlerit Inaat and Iceland at the start of 2021.
Simultaneously, efforts are underway to develop a new regional runway in Ittoqqortoormiit, as part of a broader infrastructure initiative.
Local Dissatisfaction
Gerth Mikaelsen, who has roots in Tasiilaq but now resides in Nuuk, expressed disappointment with the government’s response to the situation. He feels that the Naalakkersuisut has not adequately addressed the traffic challenges that have persisted for years.
“I don’t believe that they have truly listened to the concerns and demands of the local population and businesses regarding transportation,” he stated. Mikaelsen plans to raise this pressing issue with the Construction Committee, emphasizing the need for immediate action.
“I’m frustrated that Naalakkersuisut is reluctant to enter into new service agreements that could alleviate these ongoing problems,” he added, particularly noting his disappointment in Minister Bianco, given her own connections to East Greenland.
Impact on Local Businesses
Jørgen Brønlund, a self-employed plumber based in Tasiilaq and a member of the Tasiilaq Employers’ Association, underscored the detrimental impact of inadequate transportation on local commerce. He shared that it can take up to three months for materials and spare parts ordered from Denmark via air mail to reach Tasiilaq.
“When essential supplies are delayed, we often have to resort to temporary fixes, which can end up exacerbating issues and delaying construction projects,” Brønlund explained. He advocates for establishing more flight routes connecting East Greenland with Nuuk and Iceland to alleviate these logistical challenges.