Volcanic ash latest: Airports reopen but further delays expected

YORKSHIRE’S airports reopened today following the lifting of flight ban restrictions caused by the Icelandic volcanic ash cloud.

Planes have landed at UK airports for the first time in six days as all British airports reopened following the eruptions, which have caused a giant ash cloud to drift over the UK.

The Civil Aviation Authority approved a phased reopening of airspace because it said safety tests showed plane engines could cope in areas of low density ash.

But there were fears that airports could face chaotic scenes, possible for several weeks, as it will take time for normal schedules to resume both in the UK and overseas.

Many services are still limited and further delays are expected as planes and crew will also need to be repositioned around the UK.

In a statement, Leeds Bradford Airport said: “The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), the UK’s independent specialist regulator with oversight of aviation safety, has issued new guidance on the use of airspace.

“The new guidance allows a phased reintroduction from 10pm on April 20 of much of the airspace which is currently closed due to the volcanic ash plume over the UK.

“There will continue to be some ‘no fly zones’ where concentrations of ash are at levels unsafe for flights to take place, but very much smaller than the present restrictions.”

The statement added that Jet2.com, which operates out of Leeds Bradford, has confirmed a number of its flights will operate.

Robin Hood Airport said the airport was awaiting further information from airlines about what flights will operate.

“However, passengers due to travel should only come to the airport once the departure of their flight has been confirmed by their airline,” the Doncaster-based airport said.

Humberside Airport said it was “absolutely essential” that passengers check with their airlines and tour operators before making their way to the airport.

“We would like to thank passengers for their continued patience and understanding since this situation began on Thursday, April 15,” the airport said.

Eastern Airways, which is based at Humberside Airport, said many of its flights were back in operation.