Reykjavík city experts challenge Isavia’s tree removal plan at Öskjuhlíð, contend only 40 need to be cut
Experts from the City of Reykjavík disagree with Isavia’s assessment that nearly 2,900 trees need to be removed from Öskjuhlíð to enhance flight safety at Reykjavík Airport. According to the city’s specialists, only about 40 trees would need to be cut down this year to meet the required safety standards. The Icelandic Transport Authority has granted Isavia until September 2 to reduce tree growth in Öskjuhlíð.
Last summer, Isavia requested that Reykjavík remove 2,900 trees, arguing that these old and tall trees were posing a threat to flight safety. Their height has begun to affect incoming and outgoing flights, leading to a ban on blind landings—only visual approaches to the runway are currently allowed.
In a letter to Reykjavík officials in late May, the Transport Authority stated that it had granted Isavia a deadline to reduce tree density below specific safety thresholds. If Isavia and Reykjavík cannot reach an agreement, the authority will take action to remove the trees at the expense of Reykjavík.
Reykjavík’s official response contends that Isavia’s 2022 measurements do not justify cutting down over 3,000 trees. The city has requested that the Transport Authority conducts an independent evaluation of the situation.
Additionally, Reykjavík’s city council was not informed about the Transport Authority’s letter, which has raised concerns among officials about transparency. The matter will be discussed in upcoming meetings involving Reykjavík, Isavia, and the Transport Authority after the summer break.