Summer flight calibration tour in Greenland

From June 18th to 22nd, Isavia ANS’s Flight Calibration Department embarked on their annual summer tour, conducting crucial flight tests across all airports along the western coast of Greenland, north of Nuuk (excluding Thule). This inspection tour included the airports in Qaanaaq, Upernavik, Ilulissat, Sisimiut, Qarsut, Maniitsoq, and Aasiaat.

The crew for this mission consisted of Captain Snæbjorn Guðbjornsson, pilot Trausti Magnusson, and technician Gunnar Þórðarson.

This summer tour is one of three regular inspections conducted annually, always taking place during the 25th week of the year. The mission's purpose is to ensure the operational integrity and accuracy of vital navigation aids, including PAPI lights, DME systems, and NDB beacons.

One of the highlights of this journey was the visit to Qaanaaq, a village situated at the 77th parallel. Qaanaaq is not only the northernmost inhabited settlement in Greenland but also one of the northernmost communities in the world, home to just over 600 residents. The remote location of Qaanaaq underscores the importance of these inspections in maintaining safety and reliability in such challenging environments.

Over the course of this week, the team covered 9,117 kilometers in just under 43 flight hours.

As a fun fact, Örnólfur Lárusson, the head of the Flight Calibration Department, will be embarking on his 73rd mission this September. With 25 years of his career at Isavia dedicated to working in Greenland, his experience is unique.

Attached is some footage captured during the tour, expertly edited by Jón Margeir Þórisson from the CNS department.