Managing Editor

Charles Alcock

EASA this week published updated guidance on flights in airspace that could be impacted by volcanic ash contamination in the wake of Monday night’s eruption of Iceland’s Grindavik volcano. The agency’s <a href="https://ad.easa.europa.eu/ad/2023-13#download">2023-13 safety information bulletin</a> takes account of progress made in dealing with the threat since the <a href="https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/air-transport/2010-04-30/volcanic-ash-cloud-paralyzes-swath-european-airspace">incident in April 2010</a> that caused widespread disruption to airspace.
As of Thursday morning, the Icelandic meteorological office reported that the power, seismicity, and deformation of the volcanic fissure eruption had decreased. However, officials warned that volcanic activity could continue in Iceland for months. The initial eruption saw lava and smoke spewing over 100 meters (328 feet) into the air.
The new bulletin advises aircraft operators to monitor the situation closely because the extent of ash cloud contamination is only likely to become clear after the eruption. EASA said the situation in Iceland is not currently considered to be a safety concern that would warrant a more serious directive, but urges operators to develop a volcanic ash safety risk assessment. Keflavik International Airport, which is less than 20 miles from Grindavik, is operating normally.
The bulletin tells operators to avoid flying into visible volcanic ash or when visibility of the ash is impaired (in instrument meteorological conditions or at night). Flight crewmembers should notify air traffic controllers immediately if they encounter an ash cloud.

News and information on safety procedures and concerns.

European Regulator Issues Updated Volcanic Ash Airspace Safety Bulletin

Flights have yet to be disrupted by Monday's volcanic eruption in Iceland

EASA urged operators to closely monitor the volcanic eruption in Iceland, issuing guidance based on lessons learned from the serious disruption in 2010.

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