ASH WARNINGS FOR THE UK

THE Iceland met office issued a warning yesterday (May 4), saying that the most recent ash cloud may affect airspace over the north of the UK over the next few days.
This follows a change in the direction of the wind.

The met office expects the wind to continue to blow in the same direction until at least Thursday but confirmed that it could continue for the next few days. Authorities have also warned that the ash could cause more disruptions later in the week and periodically throughout the summer.

The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) in an update stated: “Airspace over the UK is still being impacted by ash. While levels are now such that operations are possible, in line with the standards agreed by engine manufacturers, safety restrictions will remain in place.”

As such, operations will be in line with the CAA’s Revised Airspace Guidance that requires airlines to:
• Conduct their own risk assessment and develop operational procedures to address any remaining risks;
• Put in place an intensive maintenance ash damage inspection before and after each flight; and
• Report any ash-related incidents to a reporting scheme run by the CAA