Media

0800 - 7 May 2010: The IAA will withdraw restrictions on flights in and out of six airports in Ireland, with effect from the times listed below, until further notice. They include Shannon, Donegal, Sligo, Ireland West (Knock), Galway and Kerry.

The restrictions were required as the increased level of recent volcanic activity has created a massive ash cloud stretching 1,000 miles long and 700 miles wide. (See chart)

While the northerly winds are keeping the bulk of the cloud out in the Atlantic, the increased size of the cloud continues to pose a risk especially if the winds change.

Passengers planning to travel by air over the coming days are advised to regularly check with their airlines and the IAA website in advance of going to the airport.

The following is the position on an airport by airport basis for today Friday 7^th May 2010:

The Irish Aviation Authority is in constant contact with VAAC and the Central Flow Management Unit (CFMU) at Eurocontrol and is monitoring the path of the ash cloud in order to assess the impact it could have on air safety.

Should there be any change to the above situation, the IAA will issue a further statement but passengers are advised that they must check their airline websites regularly.

Media contacts:

Dave Curtin: 086 283 2123