23/05/11 Volcanic Ash Moving Towards Scotland but the Aviation Industry is Better Prepared
While Eurocontrol is reporting that there has been no significant impact on flights today, the latest predictions by the Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre in London show the ash cloud from the volcanic eruption in Iceland reaching Scotland during the night. No firm predictions beyond the next 24 hours appear to be available at present
The Civil Aviation Authority are however pointing out that a lot has been learned since the problems last year, and preparations have been made. Ash clouds will be classed as being of low, medium, or high density. Any airline wishing to fly in a medium or high density area will need to put foward a "Safety Case" setting out the measures they will put in place to mitigate the risk of flying through ash, using input from the aircraft itself and engine manufacturers.
The CAA has stated that "Many airlines already have such safety cases in place and agreed for medium density".
Andrew Haines, Chief Executive of the CAA, said:
“Our number one priority is to ensure the safety of people both onboard aircraft and on the ground. We can’t rule out disruption, but the new arrangements that have been put in place since last year’s ash cloud mean the aviation sector is better prepared and will help to reduce any disruption in the event that volcanic ash affects UK airspace.”
As always, check with your airline for information on individual flights.