Copenhagen extends seaplane approval as operator seeks new location

Copenhagen’s seaplane can continue taking off and landing at Nordre Toldbod in the city’s harbour until the end of June 2027, after a majority of the city council extended its temporary environmental approval, DR reported.

The approval, in place since 2015 for flights between Copenhagen and Aarhus, had been due to expire on 1 January 2027. The extension is intended to give operator Nordic Seaplanes time to find a new location in Copenhagen and move towards using electric aircraft.

Conservative group leader Morten Melchiors said the city should take chances if it wants to lead the green transition, including enabling the seaplane to continue when it is expected to fly on electricity.

Melchiors had wanted to give Nordic Seaplanes a permanent location at Nordre Toldbod, but that would require a change to the municipal plan and did not receive enough political support. The company has previously assessed seven alternative locations in Copenhagen Harbour and concluded that none could be used as an airfield.

The city’s By & Havn development company and municipal administration will examine possible locations. Once a new location is found, the matter will return to the city’s Climate, Environment and Technology Committee.

A one-way seaplane ticket currently costs between 699 and 2,200 kroner. The extension was supported by the Socialist People’s Party, Social Democrats, Venstre, the Conservatives and the Liberal Alliance.