Global General

Icelandic volcanic ash disrupts flights to Europe

(Xinhua)
Updated: 2010-04-16 19:58

BEIJING - Enormous ash clouds from an Icelandic volcano eruption have disrupted many flights from China to Europe, China's civil aviation authorities and airlines said Friday.

An official with the Civil Aviation Administration of China said after the volcano erupted in Iceland on April 14, volcanic ash has covered most of Europe at an altitude of 35,000 feet, making it a risk for airline traffic.

As a result of the ash clouds, airports in London and Paris remained closed on Friday, according to the CAAC.

Chinese flag-carrier Air China said it had canceled the majority of Friday's flights to Europe.

The company said it will keep close watch on developments regarding the volcano ash and adjust its flight schedule accordingly.

Passengers can log on to www.airchina.com.cn or dial 4008100999 for the latest information.

China Eastern Airlines also canceled most of its Friday and Saturday flights between Shanghai and London, Frankfurt and Paris. Passengers can dial 95530 for more information.