Atlantic Airways reduces helicopter routes to 12 as demand shifts

Atlantic Airways has cut its helicopter routes from more than 12 to exactly 12, the Faroese national broadcaster Kringvarp Føroya reports. The airline states it will now focus on strengthening existing connections and increasing passenger numbers on those routes.

In 2025, the airline’s pilots logged 10,590 flight hours, with 823 of those on helicopter operations. The helicopters transported 10,700 passengers last year. Excess capacity has been redirected to charter flights, according to the company.

Helicopters were also deployed on 62 search-and-rescue missions and domestic medical evacuations in 2025. The airline reports an average response time of nine and a half minutes to get a helicopter airborne for emergencies.

A 10-year agreement between Atlantic Airways and the Faroese government for helicopter services and preparedness expired at the turn of the year. The contract has been extended by one year, with negotiations for a new long-term deal set to begin in 2026.