The latest eruption of an Icelandic volcano should not disrupt flights, an airline has pledged. Activity commenced in the Fagradalsfjall volcanic system in the Reykjanes peninsula earlier this week - around 20 miles from the capital Reykjavik - eight months after the last eruption ended.
However, airlines have stressed the new eruption does not pose a threat to air services with Keflavik International Airport currently remaining open with no disruption to flights. A variety of airlines fly direct to Iceland from the UK, including low-cost carriers such as easyJet, Norwegian Air and WOW.
Icelandic carrier PLAY also operates routes between London Stansted and Iceland's main airport five times a week. It stated: “The area is being closely monitored by authorities. As of now, the eruption poses no threat to infrastructure or inhabitants in the area, as the lava flow seems to be coming from the site of the previous eruption in 2021.
“Keflavik International Airport is open and incoming flights are about to get a truly spectacular view!”
The UK Foreign Office has issued an update to travellers. It read: “A small volcanic fissure eruption has begun in Meradir on the Reykjanes peninsula. There is no direct threat to populated areas. You are advised to avoid the area while the Civil Protection Agency assess the situation and not to try to visit the site.”
In April 2010, 16,000 of Europe's usual 28,000 daily scheduled passenger flights were cancelled and on the following day 16,000 of the usual 22,000 flights were cancelled because of an ash cloud from an Icelandic volcano. By the end of the month, 100,000 flights between the USA and Europe had been cancelled, leaving passengers stranded.
