Experts in Iceland are warning of a new volcanic eruption, "which could potentially bring European and transatlantic aviation to a grinding halt," according to Simple Flying.
As Open Jaw previously reported, the enormous impact of the 2010 eruption of an Icelandic volcano that spewed huge ash clouds into the atmosphere halted transatlantic air traffic and stranded millions of travellers. The travel industry remains on edge as news of the most recent eruption alert evolves. Travellers are advised to monitor the situation closely.
Officials have elevated the aviation alert level to orange, signalling a heightened risk of a volcanic eruption. A closure of airspace could result in prolonged flight cancellations. The eruption of Eyjafjallajökull in 2010 forced numerous carriers to halt operations in European airspace for nearly two weeks, causing significant financial strain on airline profits.
An orange aviation alert is issued when a "major volcanic eruption is imminent, underway, or suspected."
On 11NOV, Icelandic authorities evacuated Grindavik, a small fishing village with approximately 3,400 residents. The eruption alert comes following recent intense earthquakes in the region, which is known for seismic activity. Iceland's Meteorological Office said, "At this stage, it is not possible to determine exactly whether and where magma might reach the surface."
In JUL 2023, Open Jaw reported a previous volcano eruption near Rekjavik, which had minimal effect on air traffic. In the event of a volcanic eruption akin to the 2010 Eyjafjallajökull eruption, which disrupted thousands of flights and potentially closed off transportation in European airspace, the area remains on high alert.
The most likely scenario is that an eruption will happen on land. Simple Flying reports that if a volcanic eruption occurs, "ash would likely be spewed thousands of meters into the air and could be carried over mainland Europe by winds. A high level of volcanic material in the air could lead to jet engine failures, reduced visibility, and critically damaged flight systems."
Due to the significant likelihood of a volcanic eruption, a state of emergency was declared on 10NOV. Despite this, the UK Foreign Office and the Iceland Travel Advisory are not currently advising against travel.
In an interview with CTV News, locals describe "holding their breath and hoping for the best."
Iceland Travel Advisory
Exercise normal precautions in Iceland.
Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Iceland.
If you decide to travel to Iceland:
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
- Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter.
- Review the Country Security Report for Iceland.
- Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
- Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler's Checklist.
Flights to and from Keflavik and Akureyri airports are currently unaffected. Visit Iceland has stated, "At this moment, it is not possible to conclude what effects a possible volcanic eruption on the Reykjanes Peninsula might have on flight traffic to and from Iceland."
In the summer of 2022, another eruption lured tourists to take dangerous risks in the pursuit of selfies, and, as Open Jaw reported, at least three tourists were injured by venturing too close to the hot magma and its noxious fumes.
Travellers are strongly advised to regularly check airline websites for the latest updates on possible disruptions.
