Security - Greenland Airports

Security

Greenland Airports operates three different levels of security screening, depending on the airport you are departing from. Here, you can find important information to ensure a smooth and secure journey.

Going through the security checkpoint

Every international journey begins with a trip through the security checkpoint. Upon your arrival at our airports, we ensure a safe passage through the checkpoint. Below, you will find an overview of the process and several tips to help ensure a smooth passage through the security checkpoint.

Items you are never allowed to bring in your carry-on luggage

Regardless of whether you are traveling domestically or internationally, the following items are strictly prohibited in your carry-on luggage:

Firearms and other devices for discharging projectiles
Electroshock weapons
Sharp and pointed objects (maximum length of 6 cm)
Tools
Blunt instruments
Explosive and flammable substances or devices
Any other items that may pose a risk to flight safety

When should you arrive at the airport?

We recommend arriving well in advance, as security screening may take longer during peak periods.

If you are departing from Nuuk, you must be at the airport at least 2 hours before departure.
If you are flying from any of our other airports or heliports, you should arrive 1 hour before departure.

Check-in closes at different times depending on your destination—please refer to your airline’s recommendations.

Have your boarding pass ready

To access security screening at Nuuk Airport, you must use a speed gate where you scan your boarding pass.

At other airports, you will need to show your boarding pass to the security staff.

Have your boarding pass ready in advance—either on your phone or in paper form—to ensure a smooth and efficient process.

Passing through the metal detector

Once you have placed your belongings in the trays, you will need to walk through a metal detector.

The detector will scan for any metal on your body or in your pockets. If you are carrying metal objects, you will need to place them in a tray and pass through the detector again. You may be asked to remove your belt, wristwatch, or shoes if they contain metal.

Scanning and additional screening

Even if you are not carrying any metal, you may be randomly selected for additional screening.

Selection is determined by an algorithm and is completely random. If selected, security personnel will perform a manual scan. Children may also be selected, so if you are traveling with a child, consider preparing them for this possibility. If you or your child feel uncomfortable with the screening process, you can always ask security staff for assistance.

Layover in Nuuk?

If you are traveling domestically with a layover in Nuuk, you must also pass through the security checkpoint. This practice ensures that all passengers in the departure hall meet our security standards, which helps maintain high aviation safety and ensures the safe continuation of your journey.

This means specifically that when you have a layover in Nuuk, you must go from the arrivals hall, up through the terminal, proceed through security screening, and then back down to the departures hall to board your flight.

When traveling from Nuuk

All passengers must pass through security screening, regardless of whether they are traveling domestically, making a stopover in Nuuk, or flying internationally.

The new security screening at Nuuk Airport is equipped with modern technology, making the process faster and more convenient.

You do not need to remove electronic devices or liquids from your bag when passing through security.

If you are traveling internationally from Nuuk Airport, please note:

Upon arrival at your destination, you will be directed straight to baggage claim.
If you have a connecting flight, you must go through security screening again.

Since you will not have access to the transit area upon arrival at your destination, you will be directed straight to baggage claim. If you wish to shop duty-free, we recommend visiting our new and well-stocked duty-free store in Nuuk before your journey begins.

If you are continuing your journey on another flight after arriving at your destination, you must go through security screening again before accessing the transit area and boarding your next flight.

When traveling internationally from Kangerlussuaq, Ilulissat, Narsarsuaq, Nerlerit Inaat, and Kulusuk

If you are flying internationally, certain items must be removed from your carry-on luggage during security screening:

Larger electronic devices (laptops, tablets, cameras, mobile phones)
Liquids must be placed in a transparent, resealable 1-liter bag (maximum 100 ml per container)
Outerwear and loose items (keys, coins, belts, etc.)
Lighters must be placed separately

When traveling from other airports

The other airports in Greenland serve only domestic flights, which means that no security screening is required.

However, please be aware of the regulations regarding what you are allowed to carry in your hand luggage.

How much liquid can you bring?

Liquids must be in containers of no more than 100 ml each.
All containers must fit in one transparent, resealable 1-liter bag.
You are only allowed one bag per passenger.

What counts as a liquid?

Liquids include more than just water and beverages. The following items are also considered liquids:

Shampoo, lotion, perfume, and toothpaste.
Hair gel, deodorant, creams, and sunscreen.
Liquid makeup (e.g., foundation, lip gloss, and mascara).
Food items with a liquid or creamy consistency (e.g., yogurt, jam, and honey).

Exceptions – what can you bring?

The following liquids may be carried in larger quantities but must be screened at security:

Baby food and breast milk for use during the journey.
Medication (both liquid and pill form) – remember to bring a prescription or documentation if required.
Special dietary food for passengers with medical needs.

How to pack your liquids

Place all liquids in your 1-liter bag before reaching security.
Take the bag out of your carry-on and place it in a tray for screening.
Liquids exceeding 100 ml (unless exempt) must be packed in your checked luggage.

What happens if you have too much liquid?

Containers exceeding 100 ml are not allowed in your carry-on.
If you forget to remove larger liquids, security staff will ask you to dispose of them

Check customs regulations for your destination

Liquid restrictions may vary depending on your destination. If you are unsure, we recommend checking the customs regulations of the country you are traveling to.

You can get to and from Nuuk Airport by bus, taxi or car

You can get to and from Nuuk Airport by bus, taxi or car – you need to be at the airport at least 2 hours before your departure time.