Ullensvang Municipality faces criticism over helicopter flights at Trolltunga in Norway

Ullensvang Municipality has come under heavy criticism for approving numerous helicopter flights to the popular tourist site Trolltunga in recent years, as revealed in a letter from the County Governor. Since 2020, the mayor has officiated weddings at the scenic location, with the number of couples increasing annually—from 13 in 2023 to 20 this year. While couples must hike to the site, the mayor is transported by helicopter for the occasion.

Artist Kygo generated significant attention when he filmed a music video at Trolltunga, receiving permission for 20 helicopter flights. The County Governor has expressed concern over the increased helicopter traffic linked to weddings and Kygo’s production, stating that such activities do not constitute a valid necessity for permission to land a helicopter at this location.

The County Governor criticized both the weddings and the music video recording as insufficient grounds to justify the helicopter landings at Trolltunga. This scrutiny extends to how Ullensvang Municipality enforces regulations concerning motorized traffic in wild areas.

Located about 1,180 meters above sea level, Trolltunga is a cliff that juts out horizontally, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Access requires a hike from Skjeggedal, taking approximately 10 to 11 hours round trip. Since being featured on TripAdvisor as one of the world’s most spectacular hiking destinations in 2012, visitor numbers have surged from fewer than 1,000 in 2010 to around 81,000 in 2019.

In response to the criticism, Mayor Roald Aga Haug defended the events as promotion for Norway, stating that Kygo’s fame brings significant international attention to the country. He emphasized that such high-profile instances were exceptions and looks forward to cooperating with the County Governor to find common ground regarding future permissions.

Kygo’s concert video filmed at Trolltunga has garnered over 2.3 million views on YouTube, showcasing not only his music but also stunning aerial shots of the iconic location.