20.04.2010

International classification model for air traffic restrictions

The Transport Safety Agency TraFi decided on 20 April 2010 to introduce new international operating models and guidelines concerning air traffic restrictions with regard to the occurrence of ash. The possible lifting of air traffic restrictions will start gradually in the early hours of 21 April.

The decision is based on a three-stage classification developed by Eurocontrol and the European Commission, which will be used as the basis for deciding on restrictions or the lifting of them.

Finavia will implement restrictions to the airspace and airports in accordance with this system. According to current forecast maps, the ash will remain above southern Finland. The forecasts extend 18 hours into the future and are updated every six hours.

In the future, the Finnish Meteorological Institute's ash forecasts will still be used when providing further information to pilots.

VAAC's ash forecasts can be monitored at the following site:
http://metoffice.com/aviation/vaac/vaacuk_vag.html

Further information on the situation and any changes to the restrictions will be given at 4:00 a.m. on 21 April 2010.

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