ICAO Introduces New and Improved QVA Volcanic Ash Forecast | Aviation International News

ICAO Introduces New and Improved Volcanic Ash Forecast

Two of nine specialist centers worldwide are now supplying upgraded information

Global chart designated by ash forecasting regions — Specialist forecasting centers in London and Toulouse are the first to ‘go live’ with the new system. © ICAO

By Charlotte Bailey • News Reporter

January 16, 2026

ICAO has started providing an upgraded Quantitative Volcano Ash (QVA) forecast information service, offering greater analysis for aircraft operators. This includes forecasting how much ash is expected to be in the atmosphere rather than just its location.

The new service came into effect late last year. Two of nine specialist Volcanic Ash Advisory Centres (VAACs)—London and Toulouse—will initially provide the upgraded QVA forecasts before a global rollout.

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