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ANNEY II
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Topographical
An
1.
Iceland is larger than Ireland and lies close to the Arctic Circle 670 930 miles west of Norway. indifferent mctor road connects the capital Reykjavik (west coast) with Akureyri (north coast) and Vik (south coast). The interior of the island is barren and uninhabited. Except for the immediate vicinity of Reykjavik all roads are impassible from October to June, Throughout the year the only reliable means of communication between Seydisfiord, (the cable landing point on the east coast) and the West of the Island is by sea.
2.
There are innumerable places where aircraft can land but all require further preparation of surface before being suitable for extensive operations. There are also many places both inland and on the coast where seaplanes could alight. With the exception of Reykjavik, Akureyri, Seydisfiord and Hofn areas, all landing grounds and seaplane bases are remote from towns and ports through which aircraft could be maintained.
Climate.
3.
The winter lasts from October to March ana is extremely severe.
During the summer (June to mid-August) there is practically continuous daylight. After mid-August, the hours of darkness increase rapidly, Flying conditions are exceedingly unfavourable even during the summer and almost prohibitive in winter. Very sudden weather changes, involving violent winds, low cloud or fog, are frequent.
General facilities.
A.
Electric
There is practically no accommodation available in the island and fuel is scarce and expensive power and telephones are generally available.
5.
There are approximately 2,000 motor vehicles and 40,000 ponies in the island. Pack and riding saddlery exist in large quantities.
Main ports.
6.
Reykjavik and Hafna af jordur,
Reykjavik is the capital and centre of industry with a population of 37,000,
It has 590 feet of quayage, 2 patent ships and machine shops. · Reykjavik is connected to Hafnafjorthur (432 feet of pier) and Halfjorur (naval base) by motor road which is normally open to traffic throughout the year.
The road to Akureyri (north coast) and Vik (south coast) is usually open to motor traffic from mid-June to mid-October. For the remainder of the year all other communication throughout the island must be by sea.
Kaldadarnes
Kaldadarnes is 40 miles from Reykjavik and is the .centre of an extensive area suitable as landing grounds.
1.
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