newstodate.aero
Mar 27, 2006 (newstodate): Iceland's main international airport Keflavik Airport is stuck in turmoil created by the US decision to close down its military base at the airport.
The US ministry of defence has set the end of September as the deadline, and preparations are well underway to dismantle the military installation.
Although USA warned Iceland three years ago already that there would be an end to its military presence in Iceland, the recent decision has been an unexpected surprise.
-We really do not know what is going to happen, says a source at Iceland's CAA.
-The US Air Force has played a crucial role in providing a range of airport and aviation services, and we are badly prepared for taking over these services with short notice in accordance with ICAO obligations and standards.
-The Icelandic party has for example only two helicopters to provide SAR as we have benefited from the back-up by the US Air Force. Where can we find additional helicopters and crew with this short notice?
-One thing is for sure, though: Iceland needs and will have a fully serviceable international airport after the end of September as well. It is only now not known exactly how this is to be achieved, says the source.
The US ministry of defence has set the end of September as the deadline, and preparations are well underway to dismantle the military installation.
Although USA warned Iceland three years ago already that there would be an end to its military presence in Iceland, the recent decision has been an unexpected surprise.
-We really do not know what is going to happen, says a source at Iceland's CAA.
-The US Air Force has played a crucial role in providing a range of airport and aviation services, and we are badly prepared for taking over these services with short notice in accordance with ICAO obligations and standards.
-The Icelandic party has for example only two helicopters to provide SAR as we have benefited from the back-up by the US Air Force. Where can we find additional helicopters and crew with this short notice?
-One thing is for sure, though: Iceland needs and will have a fully serviceable international airport after the end of September as well. It is only now not known exactly how this is to be achieved, says the source.