NEWSFLASH - New ash flight rules set to come in force

NEW measures developed by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) are due to come into force today in an effort to reduce disruption caused by volcanic ash. Following "positive" talks between airlines, regulators, and aircraft and engine manufacturers, the CAA has developed a new Time Limited Zone (TLZ), allowing aircraft to fly through higher volumes of ash for shorter periods.

Based on new research, aircraft and engine manufacturers have agreed it is safe to allow operations in the new zone for a limited time, reducing the need for full air space closures. To operate in the new zone airlines need to present the CAA with a safety case that includes the agreement of their aircraft and engine manufacturers. U.K. airline Flybe is the first to achieve this and will therefore be able to use the new zone from midday, 18th May 2010.

CAA Criticism
While all U.K. airspace is presently open, the CAA has come into strong criticism from airlines following the repeated closure of UK airspace in April and May. British Airways' chief executive officer, Willie Walsh, earlier branded closures "a gross over-reaction" to a "very minor" risk.