NEWSFLASH - UK Airspace Expected To Be Closed Until 19h00 Today

THE National Air Traffic Service (NATS) has advised that the current restrictions across UK controlled airspace to the volcanic ash cloud will remain in place until at least 19h00 (local) time today (April 19). The NATS urged all those hoping to travel to contact their respective airlines before travelling to the airport. "Conditions around the movement of the layers of the volcanic ash cloud over the UK remain dynamic. NATS is maintaining close dialogue with the Met Office and with the UK's safety regulator, the CAA, in respect of the international civil aviation policy we follow in applying restrictions to use of airspace. We are currently awaiting CAA guidance". "We are working closely with Government, airports and airlines, and airframe and aero engine manufacturers to get a better understanding of the effects of the ash cloud and to seek solutions". Etihad has advised that flight cancellations remain in place to the UK, Ireland, Belarus and the majority of its European destinations until further notice. The airline has since reinstated services to Moscow and services to the destination are expected to resume its normal schedule from today. Passengers with travel plans to any of the affected destinations are urged to visit the Etihad website, www.etihadairways.com, contact their local Etihad office, travel agent, or the airline's dedicated customer assistance lines. Etihad Airway's guests who are booked to travel on a cancelled flight during the affected period can rebook to a new travel date, or cancel their ticket and receive a full refund.