Greenland has launched a new international airport to attract visitors from around the globe, as the Arctic territory works towards achieving eventual independence from Denmark.

The inaugural international route linking Copenhagen, Denmark, with Ilulissat, Greenland, on Thursday formed part of the island administration's strategy to expand tourism and broaden an economy currently dependent on fishing.

Ilulissat, known as the "City of Icebergs," sits along the island's western coast and is home to some 5,000 people. Greenland's third-largest city is also one of the island's most-visited destinations. More than 550 kilometers (342 miles) north of the capital, Nuuk , its tourism offerings range from sled dog tours to icefjord cruises in picturesque Disko Bay, known for its towering icebergs.

Previously, travelers reaching Ilulissat had to arrive by cruise ship, take a small plane from Iceland or fly to one of Greenland’s international hubs and connect to smaller aircraft.…