samgöngur

Samgöngur is the set of systems and services that enable movement of people and goods within a country or region. In Icelandic usage, samgöngur encompasses road transport, air transport, maritime transport, and, where present, public transit. The country has no active railway network.

Scope and components: The road network forms the backbone of transport; the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration (Vegagerðin) maintains roads, signs, and safety measures. The Ring Road, also known as Þjóðvegur 1, circles the island and connects most towns. Winter weather and remote terrain present ongoing challenges for maintenance and travel.

Air and sea: International and domestic air travel enable connection to Europe and North America and between regional centers; Keflavík International Airport is the primary international gateway. Maritime transport handles freight and passenger services via Icelandic ports; ferries to remote communities operate intermittently depending on demand and conditions.

Public transport and mobility: In the capital region, Strætó operates the public bus network and provides urban mobility; in other towns, local bus services are limited or provided by private operators. Taxis and car travel are common modes, with car ownership relatively high.

Governance: Transport policy and oversight rest with the Ministry of Transport and Local Government. The Vegagerðin oversees road construction and maintenance, while Samgöngustofa regulates transport safety, licensing, and safety standards across road, air, and sea.

Future orientation: Policy emphasizes safety, reliability, and sustainability, with investments in road infrastructure and services to improve rural accessibility and reduce emissions. There is currently no planned revival of railway transport in Iceland.