Chairman warns against airport plans in Hvassahraun while Reykjavik infrastructure deteriorates

The Chairman of the Parliamentary Finance Committee has stated that it is premature to discuss the development of an airport in Hvassahraun while the country’s roads are deteriorating. Instead, he emphasizes the importance of strengthening Reykjavik Airport and other infrastructure.

Recent discussions have indicated that there is nothing preventing the continuation of preparations for an airport in Hvassahraun, as outlined in a report presented by the Minister of Infrastructure. Weather conditions at the proposed site are comparable to those at Reykjavik Airport and, in some respects, better than at Keflavik. The location is mostly outside defined volcanic systems, reducing the risk of lava flow impacting the infrastructure.

However, no decision has yet been made regarding the Hvassahraun project, which aims to serve domestic flights and act as a backup airport for international travel. Njáll Trausti Friðbertsson, a member of the Independence Party and Chairman of the Finance Committee, has stressed the need for domestic flights to continue operating from Vatnsmýri.

He warns that discussions surrounding Hvassahraun should not lead to neglect of Reykjavik Airport. “The key now is not to hinder ongoing development and to strengthen Reykjavik Airport in Vatnsmýri. We are looking decades ahead regarding the construction of a Hvassahraun airport, so it is crucial to support and maintain Reykjavik Airport for future development,” he stated.

Njáll Trausti argues that it is inappropriate to consider costly projects like Hvassahraun when other pressing infrastructure needs remain unaddressed, particularly as the nation’s roads and basic infrastructure show signs of neglect.