Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
2006
The controversial US military base at Keflavík closes down after 45 years in service; the govern-
ment also approves the resumption of commercial whaling.
2008
The worldwide financial downturn hits Iceland particularly hard, precipitating the worst national
banking crisis ever when all three of the country's major banks collapse.
2009
Iceland formally applies for EU membership - a contentious issue among the population. Formal
accession talks begin in 2010 but are suspended in 2013, and the application is withdrawn by a
new government in 2014.
2010
The volcano under Eyjafjallajökull glacier begins erupting in March. In April its 9km-high ash
plume brings European flights to a standstill for six days. The eruption is declared over in Octo-
ber.
2013
In parliamentary elections, voters deliver a backlash against the Social Democrats' austerity
measures in the wake of the financial crisis. A new coalition of centre-right parties forms govern-
ment.
2013
The number of international visitors to Iceland numbers 807,000 (up from 320,000 in 2003). A
year later, that number hovers around 1 million.
2014
In mid-August, sensors begin picking up increased seismic activity around Bárðarbunga, a large
volcano system under the Vatnajökull ice cap. A small eruption begins at Holuhraun, with more
activity expected.
