Here we go again. United is tarting itself off - this time with Continental.

It seems Glen Tilton soul aim is to merge United off with someone right now - be it US Airways or Continental to create a giant airline and create "the s word".

This time United is tarting off with Continental it seems.  

It's being reported by Marketwatch that this is looking positive and Yahoo that a stock exchange ratio has been agreed - and it's now a matter of discussion between the airline boards.

CNN Has coverage too.

Of course - neither airline has commented.

We'll see - Tiltons bride has yet to go to the alter no matter how many times she's been pushed there....

Pictures from ATL or Bust are now live!

Good news everyone! The pictures from the trip report are now live at Photoblog.

They have been split down into inconvenience you further.

• To BHX
• BHX-FRA with Lufthansa + Hotel Savoy
• FRA-ORD with United
• ORD-ATL with United
• The Hyatt Regency Atlanta
• The Embassy Suites and ATL-IAD
• IAD-LHR Part I
• IAD-LHR Part II - Night time over London

The trip report is about 3/4 written, and should be live... Sunday or Monday....

Enjoy!

From silence to life - reopening European airspaace

This little video care of ITO World shows what happened when....

Airspace Rebooted from ItoWorld on Vimeo.

Will this be the last volcano ash post? Hopefully for some time....

Oh dear. UNITE calls for BA Cabin Crew to reject deal...

Ever feel like going around in circles? Well here we go again with Unite and BA.

As negotiations have once again failed to reach positive agreement for both sides, the Unite/BASSA Union said it will "strongly recommend" that its members reject the latest offer from the airline.

Of course, if the cabin crew reject the offer, it's down the road to strike action - although Unite said it would not announce strike dates "at this stage".

BA is keeping its cards to its chest to the public, and for now has not released its latest offer publicly.

Of course, there is the usual Trade Union vs Management bitchfight going on, which 1) looks messy and 2) gives a really poor impression of the company.

BA of course hardly needs this strike thanks the the last two strikes, and the Volcano ash incident.

Lets hope both side see sense and settle this... otherwise the BA Staff could find themselves all out of a job...

JAL's troubles continue: Route cuts.

It never seems to get better for JAL. In addition to the pain they've gone through, they've also taken an axe to some more of their international pairs (15 more, taking it to 28),  and suspending 30 (taking it to 50) domestic pairs to reduce its network and costs, along with 11 oversees offices and 8 domestic bases

JAL is attempting to push the airline back to profitability within a year, rather than the stated 3.

Meanwhile to shave more costs, JAL will outsource it's maintenance, putting more workers on the line - however in request to retire staff, it seems people want to jump ship with 3700 people requesting earlier retirement - 1000 more than actually needed.

Lets hope JAL can turn this around. However, one year can be a very short amount of time....

Yes, yes ... I've not paid attention to the blog...

... Sorry ... I've been focused on travelling and working out where the hell I went wrong on this run.

But there's news abound, so I'll be looking at the issues over the next few days, as well as the inevitable trip report which is coming soon.

Greetings from.. umm... Atlanta.

And I'm a dingleberry.

More later....

Airplane p0rn - Jade Cargo 747-400ERF

It's Sunday again, so it must be time for some airplane p0rn.

Today, its the boring side of big planes - Cargo planes - a Jade Cargo Boeing 747-400ERF loading up at Frankfurt am Main Airport.

More airplane p0rn next week  and more stuff about the trip later.

Greetings from the Hyatt Atlanta

And with all due respect, some of it was good, some of it was painful... and a lot of it inlovled vodka.

More later!

ATL or Bust... welcome

Greetings from the Aviance lounge. Flights are on time - so anything is possible!








More from FRA... If I find a wifi spot...

Ryanair and ODM: We made a mistake.

Really? I mean Really? O'Leary and Ryanair admit to a mistake?

Apparently so!

In a climbdown over yesterdays position to limit the liablity to the cost of the ticket, Ryanair will now cover all "reasonable" expenses.

In the usual tirade, The Odious Little Man described EU261 (the rules for passenger care) as flawed

In quotes...

"The events of the last seven days, under which Europe's airlines were prevented from flying by the closure of European airspace, highlight how absurd and discriminatory the EU261 regulations are towards Europe's airlines," 

Diddums. That's why they're there!

"While competitor ferry, coach and train operators are obliged to reimburse passengers' reasonable expenses, this reimbursement is limited to the ticket price paid to those operators.
"Yet the airlines are required by regulation to meet potentially unlimited expenses, in circumstances where there has been a catastrophic closure of European airspace over the past seven days, as EU governments and regulators wrongly applied a blanket ban on flights over European airspace. 

Well you could always set up RyanFerries if you want those rules.

"We will continue to work through the European Low Fares Airlines Association and other industry bodies to persuade the European Commission and the European Parliament to alter this regulation to put this reasonable limit on these reimbursement claims." 

Temper temper mon Capitan! The rules whilst may not be ideal are there to protect the consumer in situations that call for it.

This is an "exceptional" situation, and it's most likely there will be EU Compensation paid out. Like any expense - keep it reasonable and don't take the peanut - and you'll get compensated.

However this will put EC261 under pressure in the future...

BBC News

So is it ATL or Bust?

Well, here's one part of the answer - the positioning flight is on...

You'll have to tune in tomorrow to find out if I'm in the lounge or on a plane....

Liability Limitation - The Ryanair and TUI way.

Did you even need to guess? Of course it's our favourite LCC... Ryanair!

Ryanair is proposing to limit its liability during the Volcano Ash incident to the price of the ticket paid, and no more.

However EC261 politely reminds that they are liable for "reasonable" costs in terms of food and accommodation

To quote the ODM:

"There's no legislation designed that says any airline getting a fare of €30 should be reimbursing passengers many thousands of euros for hotel accommodation. It's absurd. I don't have a problem with everything being grounded for a day or two but there should have been a much faster response by the governments and transport ministers and by the regulators. This is one of these issues we want addressed – why exactly are the airlines expected to be reimbursing people's hotels, meals and everything else when the governments are the ones who made a balls of this?"

Other airlines - whilst not jumping ontop of this, have expressed that EC261 must be re-examined - FlyBe has said this in so many words (even though they will cover the payouts..


Meanwhile TUI Group (TUI, Thomsom etc) customers may have a very nasty shock with customers being told that they would have to pay the difference if an alternative flight the passenger chooses is more expensive.

"Tui UK and Ireland can confirm that customers who rebook to a different flight of their choice which is more expensive than their original must cover the difference themselves. Similarly, if the flight is cheaper Thomson Airways will refund the difference," 

What was an inconvenience is now rapidly turning into a money - and sadly - a legal issue. I'm sure lawyers on both sides will love the oncoming payday...

Sources:
The Guardian
BBC News

Roll out the Branson...

Ticky Dicky has been on BBC News and here are some choice quotes from the interview with my comments... (SRB's comments in italics, mine in the usual)


"It's been challenging" 
Really?

New Tag-Line for the airline "Shit Happens" 
Tag that up for all airlines, and we might be in business.  But with what's gone on the past 10 years... Shit happens sounds about right


"Government may have panicked closing the airspace"
Maybe. Better safe than sorry? Hindsight. Wonderful thing!

"Should had looked for better options"
 Well a bit more flight testing might had been good, but

"It was the safe option to take"
And who would had been moaning if one of their 747's/A340's fell out of the sky?

"Not likely to see a blanket ban again"
Don't bet on it beardy. If number two volcano goes into overdrive...


"EC Compensation will hopefully paid to Airlines"
... for those who were hit down-route. He'll expect to happen - but it'll take time.

Update from NATS: All systems go!

Whilst there are some provisos such as new ash, NATS and the CAA have reopened UK airports and airspace.

This is not over by a long stretch, but it means life can begin returning to some sense of normality, as will this blog over the next few days.

We are delighted to report that most restrictions on UK airspace began to be lifted at 2134 (local time) this evening, following new guidance from the UK’s safety regulator, the Civil Aviation Authority on restrictions to UK airspace as a result of the volcanic eruption.

Air traffic control services have resumed in the UK with the exception of an area over the north west of Scotland which continues to be affected by a dense concentration of volcanic ash. Based on current information this situation is not expected to change overnight. The situation continues to be dynamic as a result of changing weather conditions and the prediction of dense areas of volcanic ash. NATS will continue to monitor the latest Met Office and VAAC information and the CAA’s updates on the availability of UK airspace.

This brings to an end a period of disruption and uncertainty for air passengers. Our operation is fully staffed and already responding to the backlog of flights entering UK airspace. We will be working with the airlines and airports to resume normal operations as soon as possible.

Due to the scale of the disruption, it will take some time for flights to resume normal operations and passengers are advised to check with their airlines for the latest information about flights.

There are no further operational changes expected overnight and on this basis our next update will be at 0900 (local time) on 21 April.

www.nats.co.uk

BREAKING - UK AIRSPACE IS REOPENING!!!!

10pm ... things start to reopen in a phased method!

This is breaking and will updated as soon as possible.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/8633597.stm

Willie Walsh is pleased the airspace is open, and the planes that are in the air are heading into land at Heathrow and getting people moving. But be warned, it's going to take weeks to get back to normal

Is Atlanta on? I don't honestly know...

United... Do me a favour and extend the Travel Waiver!!!

I'm getting reasonably annoyed with this volcano business, and to be honest - the last thing I want to be doing is getting in the air.

So at the moment, I'm waiting for United to declare the travel waiver so I can kibosh this trip.

Alas, I can't. Why?

One smegging day out!

So it's a game of patience at the moment, and the time to reschedule everything. Oh the glamour of travel....

So if anyone at United World Headquarters is listening.... please cancel the flying programme from Europe on Saturday? ;) 

FREEBIE!!! Free Lonley Planet Apps!

Got an iPhone and you're stuck in an odd city because of this ash?

Lonely Planet are offering free downloads on 13 of their guides from the iTunes Store:

• London
• Paris
• Istanbul
• Barcelona
• Amsterdam
• Rome
• Berlin
• Vienna
• Stockholm
• Budapest
• Copenhagen
• Munich
• Moscow
• San Francisco (Portal App - been free for some time)

This is available free until 22nd (Thursday), so it's a good time to stock up on reasonable travel guides for nothing, and of course work on iPhones, iPod Touch's and of course the iPad.

Fill y'boots!

*** BREAKING *** NATS Update - Flights Restrictions slowly easing.

Yup. It's varible, so here are the key points

• ABZ, INV, EDI to be avalible to 01:00
• NCL, DTV too.
• Flying above the ash-cloud at 20,000ft will be permitted from 19:00 to 01:00 too.

 It's progress, but the volcano is still singing...

The situation regarding the volcanic eruption in Iceland remains dynamic and the latest information from the Met Office shows that the situation will continue to be variable.

Based on the latest Met Office information, part of Scottish and Northern Irish airspace including Aberdeen, Inverness and Edinburgh airports will continue to be available from 1900 today to 0100 tomorrow, Wednesday 21 April, and also south to Newcastle Airport. Glasgow and Teesside airports will additionally become available in this time period. Restrictions will remain in place over the rest of UK airspace below 20,000ft.

Flights above the ash cloud are now permitted in the UK; between 1900 today and 0100 tomorrow, this will enable aircraft movements above 20,000ft in UK airspace.

We will continue to monitor Met Office information and the situation is likely to change during the course of the day. We will make a further statement at approximately 2100 today.

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 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.

www.nats.co.uk

NATS Update: Mixed blessings

Time for the latest NATS update whist I'm stuck on a bus.

The good news is that Scottish airspace will be open this afternoon (13:00) whilst a decision on traffic over 20000ft will be made so that international traffic above the UK can recommence.

Today could be interesting. I'll be updating on the 15:00 announcement when it comes.

NATS Announcement below:

The situation regarding the volcanic eruption in Iceland remains dynamic and the latest information from the Met Office shows that the situation today will continue to be variable.


Based on the latest Met Office information, part of Scottish airspace including Aberdeen, Inverness and Edinburgh airports will continue to be available from 1300-1900 today, and also south to Newcastle Airport. Restrictions will remain in place over the rest of UK airspace below 20,000ft.


Overnight the CAA, in line with new guidance from the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) decided flights above the ash cloud will be permitted in the UK; between 1300-1900 this will enable aircraft movements above 20,000ft in UK airspace.


We will continue to monitor Met Office information and the situation is likely to change during the course of the day. We will make a further statement at approximately 1500.


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 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.

www.nats.co.uk

NATS Update: More ash on the way...

It seems the oh so brief period of the ash abating is coming to an end, and the danger of variability is back.

NATS seem to be opening more airspace (though not as far as LHR/LGW/LCY), but with the additional ash, personally, I'd expect to be looking at closing the airspace again sooner rather than later.

The joy of mother nature. I just wish the news improved.

NATS statement below at 02:45.

Since our last statement at 2100 yesterday, the volcano eruption in Iceland has strengthened and a new ash cloud is spreading south and east towards the UK. This demonstrates the dynamic and rapidly changing conditions in which we are working. 

Latest information from the Met Office shows that the situation is variable. The information shows that Scottish airports should be available from 0700 and more airspace over England may become available from 1300 although not as far south as the main London airports.

We will continue to monitor Met Office information and the situation is likely to change during the course of the day.  We will make a further statement at approximately 0900 (local time), today, Tuesday 20 April. 

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 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.

www.nats.co.uk

NATS Update 19/4, 21:45 - Ok - this is complex. ish.

It seems the volcano has decided to spit more ash out, causing most of tommrows plans to be thrown into dissary.

Whilst some flying may be possible, they could be equally grounding flights just as fast.

As usual - contact your airline or airport in regards to what action you need to take.

Since our last statement at 1530 today, the volcano eruption in Iceland has strengthened and a new ash cloud is spreading south and east towards the UK. This demonstrates the dynamic and rapidly changing conditions in which we are working. 

Latest information from the Met Office shows that the situation is worsening in some areas.  Based on this information, the situation for Northern Irish airports for the morning is uncertain, due to the new ash cloud.  The latest information shows that Scottish airports should be available from 0700 and more airspace over England may become available from 1300 although not as far south as the main London airports. 

We will continue to monitor Met Office information and the situation is likely to change overnight.   We will make a further statement at approximately 0300 (local time), tomorrow, Tuesday 20 April and again at 0700.  

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.

www.nats.co.uk

NATS Update annocument: PARTIAL UK AIRSPACE OPEN FROM 07:00BST 20/04!!!!

Good news from NATS - UK Airspace is being opened from 07:00 between:

• Scotland
• Durham Teeside
• Blackpool 
• Possible restrictions over LHR may lift later tomorrow

A light at the end of the tunnel? Maybe...

The volcanic eruption has reduced and the volcano is not currently emitting ash to altitudes that will affect the UK. Assuming there are no further significant ash emissions we are now looking at a continuously improving situation.

Based on the latest information from the Met Office, NATS advises that the restrictions currently in place across UK controlled airspace will remain in place until 0700 (local time) tomorrow, Tuesday.

From 0700 (local time) tomorrow, Tuesday, Scottish airspace will be open, and south to a line between Teeside and Blackpool. Mainland Scottish airports will be open.

This is a dynamic and changing situation and is therefore difficult to forecast beyond 0700 local; however, the latest Met Office advice is that the contaminated area will continue to move south with the possibility that restrictions to airspace above England and Wales, including the London area, may be lifted later tomorrow (Tuesday).

We will continue to monitor Met Office information and review our arrangements in line with that. We will advise further arrangements at approximately 2100 (local time), today.
It is now for airports and airlines to decide how best to utilise this opportunity.

Passengers should contact their airlines to find out how this will affect their travel plans.

www.nats.co.uk

To kibosh or not (ATL or Bust)?

To kibosh or not? That s the question.

This coming Friday, allegedly I'm booked to do my Atlanta run, heading off to FRA, then onto ORD and ATL.

Alas, this little annoying volcano thing is in the way.

At the moment, I'm watching this very carefully as this progresses. However, here are the ugly results:

• Lufthansa has already opened up rebooking until the end of May
• The hotel on ebookers is non-refundable alas.
• United are holding out on re-bookings at the moment for my departure date  (allowed through to the 22nd)
• The hotel in Atlanta is refundable at least.
• No money spent on train tickets that hasn't been assigned already.

At the worst, I'll be £40 out of pocket, but its going to take major re-scheduling... or this volcano to calm down in the next few days...

But where does this leave the run? Creek. No Paddle.

To Kibosh the run or not ... the ATL run could be bust sooner than I can imagine....

Thoughts and comments welcome!

Yup: You guessed it. UK Airspace closed until 20/04 01:00BST

Well it never rains, but it pours.

UK Airspace closed until 20/04 at 01:00BST. And surprise.. the political parties are now starting to have a go on this.

More later... including one of mileage run plights...

Based on the latest information from the Met Office, NATS advises that the current restrictions across UK controlled airspace due to the volcanic ash cloud will remain in place until at least 0100 (local) on Tuesday 20th April.

Anyone hoping to travel should contact their airline 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.

*** BREAKING *** NATS continue to close UK Airspace until 20/01 19:00BST

You couldn't had guessed this at all.

NATS have continued to close UK Airspace until 19:00BST on the 20/01.

More tomorrow morning when I get to the office.

Based on the latest information from the Met Office, NATS advises that the current restrictions across UK controlled airspace due to the volcanic ash cloud will remain in place until at least 1900 (local) on Monday 19 April.
Anyone hoping to travel should contact their airline 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.

The next update will be issued at approximately 0900 (local).

www.nats.co.uk

Test flights galore - but planes are still grounded...

Some test flights have been carried out by Austrian, British Airways, KLM  and Lufthansa to see if the cloud is damaging, with encouraging results, however these tests have been done through gaps which aren't that sensitive to discovery with aircraft instruments.

As a result, there are calls to reassess the flight-ban to be lifted (with the ban still in place until 19:00BST 19/04), however Ministers have decided to keep the airspace closed.

Capacity is stretched to the limits, with Eurostar and the ferries maxed out.  

For those who are stuck, remember to contact your local consulate, or the FCO Helpline at 020 7008 0000

Breaking : NATS airspace ban extened until Monday 07:00

It never rains... It just enjoys pouring.

Some more restrictions are clearing, but this isn't looking good.

NATS statement below:

The volcanic ash cloud from Iceland is moving around and changing shape. Based on the latest information from the Met Office, NATS advises that the restrictions currently in place across UK controlled airspace will remain in place until at least 0700 (UK time) tomorrow, Sunday 18 April.


There may be some airspace available within Scotland, Northern Ireland and England north of Leeds up till 1900 (UK time), which may enable some domestic flights to operate under individual coordination with ATC. We will be coordinating this closely with airlines and airports. We would repeat, it is most unlikely that many flights will operate today and anyone hoping to travel should contact their airline before travelling to the airport. After 1900 (UK time), Met Office forecasts show the ash cloud progressively covering the whole of the UK.


We will continue to monitor Met Office information and review our arrangements in line with that. We will advise further arrangements at approximately 2100 (UK time), today.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone - apologies for the spelling!

NATS update: More Chaos until Monday - and probably beyond.

It seems that things are going from bad to worse, as NATS continue to close UK Airspace, with only limited flights to the Orkneys and Shetlands.

Why do I have a feeling this is going to run and run?
 

The volcanic ash cloud from Iceland is currently spread across the UK.  Based on the latest information from the Met Office, NATS advises that the restrictions currently in place across UK controlled airspace will remain in place until at least 0100 (local time) tomorrow, Monday 19 April.
There may be limited opportunity in Orkney and Shetland from 1900 (local time) today for some flights to operate under individual coordination with ATC.  However, it is most unlikely that many flights will operate today and anyone hoping to travel should contact their airline before travelling to the airport. 
We will continue to monitor Met Office information and review our arrangements in line with that.   We will advise further arrangements at approximately 1500 (local time), today.  

www.nats.co.uk

Airplane p0rn - British Airways 747 Lineup

We may be all stuck on the ground, but it doesn't mean that we can't have some mroe airplane p0rn!

This week,  a classic lineup at Heathrow T5 - a row of British Airways 747-400's  parked up waiting to depart for destinations far and wide

More airplane p0rn next week!

Latest NATS update: Stay at home, UK Airspace closed totally until 19:00

NATS has updated its advice and UK airspace is closed now until 19:00 today. This is going to take days to clear.

Even Qantas is saying expect a week for this to clear.

Fun ahead...

The volcanic ash cloud from Iceland shows continued and extensive cover of the UK. Based on the latest information from the Met Office, NATS advises that the restrictions currently in place across UK controlled airspace will remain in place until at least 1900 (UK time) today, Sunday April 18.

We will continue to monitor Met Office information and will advise on further arrangements at approximately 0900 (UK time) later this morning.

Breaking - uk airspace closed until 07:00 18/4

You've guessed it -ATC has dragged out the cancellations until 18/4 07:00

More analysis later

The volcanic ash cloud from Iceland is moving around and changing shape. Based on the latest information from the Met Office, NATS advises that the restrictions currently in place across UK controlled airspace will remain in place until at least 0700 (UK time) tomorrow, Sunday 18 April.


There may be some airspace available within Scotland, Northern Ireland and England north of Leeds up till 1900 (UK time), which may enable some domestic flights to operate under individual coordination with ATC. We will be coordinating this closely with airlines and airports. We would repeat, it is most unlikely that many flights will operate today and anyone hoping to travel should contact their airline before travelling to the airport. After 1900 (UK time), Met Office forecasts show the ash cloud progressively covering the whole of the UK.


We will continue to monitor Met Office information and review our arrangements in line with that. We will advise further arrangements at approximately 2100 (UK time), today.

UK Flights Updates: NATS suspended traffic until 01:00 18/4,

NATS has suspended traffic again until 01:00BST on the 18/4.

EuroControl is expecting disruption to continue for the next 24 hours.

NATS should make an announcement at 15:00, with our update at  15:15.


The joy of volcanic ash. But why is it such a killer? More on that later....

Latest NATS update: More of the same, however you're going to have to read this time

Condensed version 
- UK Airspace still restricted to 13:00BST 17/4
- Airspace restrictions lifted in Certain parts, but may be locked down at any time
- All flights in these zones on a case-by-case basis.
- Ash may return by 10:00BST, forcing restrictions to be reintroduced.

Fun eh?

Full NATS announcement:

The volcanic ash cloud continues to affect UK airspace. Following the latest update from the Met Office, NATS advises that the restrictions currently in place across UK controlled airspace will remain in place until at least 1300 (UK time) on Saturday April 17.

 There are currently no airspace restrictions in Scotland, Northern Ireland and in an area over the North Sea that includes the Shetlands and Orkney Isles. Manchester, Liverpool and all airports North of those may be available from 0400 (UK time) – 1000 (UK time) for departures to and arrivals from the North and West subject to individual co-ordination. However, please be advised that the situation is continuously changing. Forecasts indicate that the ash cloud is expected to return over Northern England at 1000 (UK time) and it is likely that restrictions will be reintroduced.

Please note these arrangements do not mean that all flights will operate.  Anyone hoping to travel today or tomorrow should contact their airline before going to the airport.

We are looking for opportunities when the ash cloud moves sufficiently for us to enable some flights to operate under individual coordination with ATC.  

We will review further Met Office information and at 0900 (UK time) on Saturday we will advise further arrangements. 

We continue to work closely with airports, airlines, and the rest of Europe to understand and mitigate the implications of the volcanic eruption.

www.nats.co.uk

NATS Update: UK Airspace Closed until at least 07:00, 17/4, Scottish/NI open from 19:00 18/4

NATS extended its restrictions on UK airspace until at least 0700 BST on Saturday. Restrictions will be lifted in parts of Scottish airspace and Northern Ireland from 1900 BST on Friday. North Atlantic Traffic will also be cleared for operation within the open airspaces.

From NATS:

The cloud  of volcanic ash continues to move south through the UK and the eruption in Iceland continues.


Following a review of the latest Met Office information, NATS advises that restrictions preventing flights in controlled airspace over England and Wales will remain in place until 0700 (UK time) tomorrow, Saturday 17 April, at the earliest. From 1900 (UK time) today ATC restrictions will be lifted in a large part of Scottish airspace including Scottish airports, Shetland, Orkneys and also Northern Ireland.


On this basis, North Atlantic traffic can also operate to/from points in this airspace. Please note these arrangements do not mean that all flights will operate. Anyone hoping to travel today or tomorrow should contact their airline before going to the airport.


We are looking for opportunities when the ash cloud moves sufficient for us to enable some flights to operate under individual coordination with ATC. Some aircraft were able to operate at Manchester this morning, although restrictions are now reapplied to Manchester.


We hope there may be some opportunity from the north into Newcastle after 0100 (UK time) tomorrow - Saturday.


We will review further Met Office information and at 2030 (UK time) we will advise further arrangements. In general, the situation is dynamic and subject to change.


We continue to work closely with airports, airlines, and the rest of Europe to understand and mitigate the implications of the volcanic eruption.

Source www.nats.co.uk

So expect further delays and cancellations for now.

Impact analysis - or "Don't bother unless you've got a ticket already"

To update on the wonderful situation, the advice if you want to get out of the country this weekend is becoming clear.

Don't bother unless you've got a ticket already.

Eustostar is at capacity at the moment.  If you haven't got a ticket, don't bother turning up.
Stena Line and FastLine to/Ireland from Wales are reporting higher than usual loads.
Cross Channel Ferry Companies are reporting very high loads in both directions. 
UK Rail Network is getting busier, with core trunk routes either being extended or extra trains being laid on if needed.

In addition in Europe, airports are closing as needed due to the ash cloud, so if you are planning to travel this weekend

• Check before you go with your carrier.
• Check the airport to see if it's open
• Expect short notice cancellations
• Expect delays
• And be careful!

** BREAKING ** UK Air Traffic Restrictions to stay in place until Saturday 01:00BST

A quick update from NATS on this fast moving issue with the volcanic ash - and they have posted an alert that UK airspace will be restricted until 01:00BST (00:00 GMT), however some traffic on the North Atlantic Tracks from/to Glasgow, Prestwick and Belfast may operate during this period.

Next update: 14:30 from NATS, expect it to follow from GhettoIFE.com.  In the Lunchtime post, I'll be looking at the impact on other services.

NAT's Statement:

The cloud of volcanic ash continues to cover much of the UK and the eruption in Iceland continues. Following a review of the latest Met Office information, NATS advises that restrictions preventing flights in English controlled airspace will remain in place until 0100 (UK time) tomorrow, Saturday 17 April, at the earliest.

Flights in Northern Ireland and the Western Isles of Scotland to and from Glasgow and Prestwick will continue to be allowed until 1900 (UK time) subject to individual co-ordination.  North Atlantic traffic to and from Glasgow, Prestwick and Belfast may also be allowed in this period.

From 1900 (UK time), forecasts indicate that Scottish airspace may be able to accept domestic flights within Scotland and Northern/Southern Ireland, and North Atlantic flights to/from airports in Scotland and Northern Ireland.

We will review further Met Office information and at 1430 (UK time) we will advise further arrangements.  In general, the situation is dynamic and subject to change. 
We continue to work closely with airports, airlines, and the rest of Europe to understand and mitigate the implications of the volcanic eruption.

www.nats.co.uk

And this is the crux of the problem....

Image - NASA.

*** BREAKING *** NATS continue to close UK Airspace until 13:00BST

Just off the wires: NATS will continue to close UK Airspace until 13:00 on the 16/4.

Quote from NATS

The cloud of volcanic ash continues to cover much of the UK. Following a review of the latest Met Office information, NATS advises that restrictions will remain in place in UK controlled airspace until 1300 (UK time) tomorrow, Friday 16 April, at the earliest.

However, flights from Northern Ireland and the Western Isles of Scotland to and from Glasgow, Edinburgh and Prestwick may be allowed in the period from 0100 (UK time) to 1300 (UK time) tomorrow subject to individual co-ordination. North Atlantic traffic to and from Edinburgh, Glasgow, Prestwick and Belfast may also be allowed in the period.

We will review further Met Office information and at 0230 (UK time) tomorrow we will advise the arrangements that will be in place through to 1800 (UK time) tomorrow. However be aware that the situation cannot be said to be improving with any certainty as the forecast affected area appears to be closing in from east to west. We continue to work closely with airports, airlines, and the rest of Europe to understand and mitigate the implications of the volcanic eruption.

Source: www.nats.co.uk

Update from NATS: No Flights in UK Airspace until 16/04, 07:00BST

NATS have suspended flights over UK Airspace now until Friday 16th April, 07:00 with an advisory due today at 21:00BST

In addtion:
Airspaces Closed:

• Republic of Ireland
• Norway 
• Belgium 

Planned or partially closed at time of writing:

• Sweden (total closure by 2000 GMT)
• Denmark (total by 1600 GMT)
• Finland (northern airspace closed till 1200 GMT Friday)
• Netherlands (being shut progressively)

France and Germany are monitoring, and may close parts as needed.

And the skies over London fall quiet...

Source: http://www.heathrowcam.net/liveradar.php

 Until the ash cloud passes, this picture may be here for some time....

Meanwhile in Volcanic Ash land.. (the UK) - NO FLIGHTS BETWEEN 12:00 and 18:00 15/04

NATS is suspending traffic from  12:00 and 18:00 15/04 in UK Airspace due to the Volcanic ash.

• BAA has confirmed LHR, STN and LGW will be suspended. 
• ABZ, GLA, EDI and all other Scottish Airports are already shut.
• LPL is suspending until at least 13:00 (but probably longer.)
• BA Domestic Programme Cancelled. 
• MAN and NCL - Programme Suspended.
• BHX 90% Cancellations
• EMA, BRS, CWL affected.
• BFS Closed and DUB Restricted. 
• Northbound flights from NQY and SOU Cancelled. Southbound operational.

In other words - EXPECT CHAOS

The oncoming storm is breifly put on hold.... (BMI Diamond Club ISN'T being shut!)

According to the BMI there has been yet another IT messup (those who are long time BMI readers will know BMI and IT messups are good friends).

See http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/bmi-diamond-club/1074467-please-dont-worry-diamond-club-not-closing-official.html for the update

But for members who are in The Netherlands, Israel and Ukraine, (due to BMI withdrawing and requests ) they're transferring members in those countries into Miles & More.

BMI IT - It's why we have LOLCats. As far as I can tell...

*** BREAKING *** NATS Has suspended most UK Domestic Flights

In light of the Volcanic ash, NATS  (National Air Traffic Service) has suspended most, if not all UK Domestic Flights (90% of the UK Domestic Programme due).

Check with your airline before you depart.

Next update: 10:00amish

More evidence the Diamond Club party is coming to an end...

This isn't a good sign....

Nor is this (Image c/o jms_uk at Flyertalk)

Volcanic Ash from Iceland hits the UK - MAJOR CANCELLATIONS

Due to the ash from Iceland in the upper atmosphere, there are major disruptions to the flying programmes today across the UK

ATC Have banned flying flying over certain parts of Scotland, and may modify its advice as the cloud migrates southwards over the UK. 

THEIR MAJOR CANCELLATIONS ON ALL UK AND IRELAND AIRPORTS

(7am update)

250 flights are hit over Scottish airports (ABZ, GLA and EDI Closed), and all British airspace flights are restricted.  MAN is open, but about 200 flights hit and is expecting emergency diversions

Manchester is expected to clear at 1pm, and disruptions all day.

The advice from all airports is loud and clear - check before you travel with your airline.

** BREAKING ** BMI Diamond Club to move to Miles and More! **

It's out of the bag. 16th of May will be a very black day.

See: http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/bmi-diamond-club/1074164-dc-being-migrated-m-m-real.html

More analysis later. 

More fun in BMI Land - Diamond Club login borked.

Oh dear. It seems that someone has taken the hamster offline that powers the BMI Diamond Club online service (the service is offline and you can't log-on).  

Users trying to log-on will see this message...

"Due to a technical error we are unable to log you in at the moment. We are working to fix the error and you will be able to log in soon. Please accept our apologies for any inconvenience caused."

The Diamond Club servers have been a bit bouncy recently, and once again, they're down it seems.

In other news, Diamond Club members have broken out the LOLCats...

Expect this to run...

One Day, Three Incidents.

It's been a busy olde day in the world of Aircraft doing odd things.

Lets start from the top:

Merpati Nusantara Airlines, Flight 836 met with a nasty end  after a flight between Sorong and Manokwari, Indonesia.

The flight, operated by Boeing 737-300, overran the runway on landing, coming to a rest 200 meters beyond it. The aircraft broke into several pieces on halting, with 109 people aboard (103+6) with 3 serious injuries, 20 major injuries but all board escaped alive.

Officials said heavy rain may have caused the crash but that the pilots had followed safety regulations.

As a side note, Merpati Nusantara Airlines are on the EU Blacklist for flying to and from the EU due to the safety record (not their equipment would make it)

---

Cathay Pacific have trouble with one of their A330's.

In their first major incident for 35 years, A Cathay Pacific A330 Flight CX780, from Surabaya, Indonesia to Hong Kong due to a suspected left engine problem shutting down on approach .

Photo - China News Daily

An emergency evacuation of passengers was initiated after the aircraft landed as can be seen on the pictures, with slides deployed.

There were 323 people aboard (309+14) and 8 passengers were injured during the evacuation - two of which have been discharged.

All four tires on the left of the aircraft and two on the right deflated, and they were designed to deflate in emergency situations to prevent them from bursting, Cathay Pacific Airways' Chief Executive Tony Tyler said.

Asked about engine problems, the cause has yet to be determined and a report on the matter will be released in about four weeks.

---

Chemical Fumes cause AA flight to divert.

And finally it seems, an American Airlines AA49 was also having problems with a Boeing 767-300 with a Paris to Dallas service. when reports of chemical fumes in the cabin causing crew dizziness.

The Boeing 767 landed safely just after 1345 GMT. No-one was injured out of the 145 (133+12).

American Airlines have stated "No further details are available at this time, but engineers are currently investigating the potential source of any fumes".

A rescue aircraft will be on the way to pick up the stranded passengers.

---

Prehaps the most important thing to say is that whilst there was some injuries in these incidients, every person has got out alive.

That has got to count for something.

British people become more Sheeple-like - Resistance to the Nude-o-Scope Fading

A conveniently timed release from Unisys states that a lot of British people seem to be Sheeple (according to who they surveyed in the Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Germany, Holland Hong Kong, Mexico, New Zealand, Spain, the UK and the USA).

Out of 977 people, 90% of them were happy to be Nude-o-scoped in the UK. In at

In other territories, Germany and Belgium, it was 66% surveyed were in favour, 45% in Hong Kong and 24% in Mexico. In addition, it seems the sheeple of this nation are happy to give away biometric data (91% surveyed)


Of course, there has been objection of the nude-o-scopes, with the inevitable scandal at Heathrow with a security person ogling an image. 

Unisys state

"With airport operator BAA also reporting positive responses to the full-body scanners, it appears that the early controversy surrounding the technology has died down and people are taking a pragmatic approach to their safety.

 However, there is some admittance that Nude-O-Scopes alone are not the answer.

"The question is has the country done enough to subvert another terrorist plot? "What we have done so far is react to threats as they occur, rather than take an holistic view of the threat."

 ... and that's the essence of security theatre, and how to move forward from it.  Currently, it's reactionary and dressing up things to be "secure".

The fact is a different approach may be needed that works better.

Republic finally decides which brand would survive... and it...

... Frontier Airlines!

Indeed - the airline with the animals on the tail (Frontier Airlines) will be the name of the combined Republic and Midwest Airlines, merging the Airbus fleets of Frontier and ERJ-190 fleets of Midwest together.

So what does this mean (lets get down to the nitty gritty)

• All booking valid. 
• Systems have to merge eventually. 
• More routes pairs to be introduced.
• Frequent flyers miles - Both Programmes are combining into one. Stay tuned.
• Fleet and Work integration - lots of work ahead, expect fun with the unions. 12 to 18 months of fun.
• Paintwork-  Well since it's Frontier, there are going to be a lot more animals on planes - inducing the first ERJ painted with a Badger (the state animal of Wisconsin) - as yet unnamed. The people of Wisconsin will decide the animal's name...
• Midwest Cookies - Believe it or not, they'll be going fleetwide/servicewide.

More information at http://www.frontiermidwest.com/weare1/home/, but it's good to see Republic make a real go at it's "proper" airline, and hopefully make it work for the staff and the passengers

Humor: The dangers of seat selection....

xkcd explains why...

Source: http://xkcd.com/726/

The fallout of a widely publicied promotion... (BMI Diamond Club, Virgin Flying Club)

"He's not the Messiah- He's a very naughty boy!" - Mandy (Life of Brian)

... and for those of you who used JCWIZO code to join up with BMI who aren't members (to get Star Silver and a pittance), that's how BMI will be treating you.

A target group of 400 people that BMI were expecting has been hammered by a range of IP addresses that were out of band. Even now the database monkeys are working through the list.

Or in IT land, we call it "De-duplication". You can work out what that means.

Meanwhile in BransonWorld, it seems that Virgin Atlantic has been hit with pretty much the same thing with an offer for Virgin Atlantic Flying Club GOLD. Again, this was targeted at another group... but the code got out it seems. Virgin however was much quicker to pull this. If they reduce all the new Golds to Red's of course, is another matter.

What can we learn from this?

Targeted offers are just that - Targeted. Whilst some might say "nothing ventured, nothing gained", companies will take action to defend their interest if a deal get out... so if you're riding on something going through... make sure you're in the right group....

Humor: It's amazing what MH does to keep it's wings level...

This wandered in from ThereIfixedit.com

But what is going on? Well it's a Boeing part... to lift the plane so you can change the tire, or do minor maintenance work to the landing gear.

See... as well as humorous, we're educational!

Merger mania!

Welcome to International Airlines Group.

Who's that you're asking? It's the new name of the the combined BA/Iberia merger (or what the holding company is called) when it completes at the end of the year. Both the British Airways and Iberia brands will be maintained as is.

The company will have its headquarters in London, with BA shareholders retaining 55% ownership and Iberia shareholder owning the rest.

Unite is supporting the deal - but not at any costs, with possible reductions (yes the s word was mentioned - and that's banned in this blog)

Meanwhile over the pond, United and US Airways are still dancing around each other.  And this dance has gone on. And on. And on.  It seems that Tempe and Chicago have been in deep discussions with either a takeover or a merger on the cards.  Again, if this goes ahead there's major room for savings, but the biggest problem will be the unions and how the merged company would handle them.

And considering US Airways product is infinity worse than United's Economy product (and that's before we get to E+, Business and First class seats), this smells bad all round.

Were it a "Merger of Equals" and the different brands maintained, their could be legs in it - but it would sure honk off Continental...

Don't Grab the first *S Silver you see...

(I was going to write a bit on BA and IB merging up, as well as the UA and US mating dance, but it's going to have to wait for a bit...)

No doubt you've been round the interwebs and seen an entry on View from the Wing and Lucky's One Mile at a Time about a free Star Silver with 2000 miles to boot with BMI (and I'm not linking up the post - and there's a very good reason for once).

There are quiet a few of these around (if you're looking carefully) that BMI are targeting to various groups (and named lists) with various signup bonuses.

However, Donnington Hall has been clamping down recently on people who to be honest have been taking the mickey, and there have been odd results with miles being forfeited, accounts closed due to what BMI sees to be fraud (eg, opening 7 accounts for a family, taking all the bonus miles and cashing them in for a ticket).

The fact is now with the targeted promotions, and miles on promotions are normally non-transferable.

If you're in one of these organisations, then great - take advantage - it's a great offer. If you're not, you're going to run the risk of loosing the miles, loosing any credited miles, loosing the status and the account. 

Let's be careful out there!

Sense breaks out: BA and Unite talk, LH and Vereinigung Cockpit also talk.

It seems that sense has been slapped into these companies - and not before too long.

British Airways and Unite have resumed talks with"serious progress" had been made and discussions would continue over the next few days.  It's been noted there will no further strike dates would be set while the talks continued. 


Meanwhile Lufthansa and Vereinigung Cockpit have agreed terms to allow arbitration, calling off the strike that was due to start on the 13th April for 4 days (and a certain blogger writing this will not be happy if they're striking on the 23rd!).

Lets hope some heads get knocked together and some negotiation takes place that will allow people to continue to fly.

Apple iPad - TSA Says you don't need to get it out....

According to Yahoo and Blogger Bob's TSA Blog, you don't need to get your iPad or any Slate type product out for screening.

The TSA state

"Electronic items smaller than the standard sized laptop should not need to be removed from your bag or their cases. It’s that simple."

and

Only electronics the size of a standard laptop or larger (for example Playstation®, Xbox™, or Nintendo®), full-size DVD players, and video cameras that use video cassettes must be removed from their carrying cases and submitted separately for x-ray screening.

First pedantic point... what the heck is a "Standard sized laptop"?

Second pedantic point... who's going to be first to take an iPad through a screening point and find they have to get it out to share with the world?

Third pedantic point... if you produce the evidence that it's ok to keep in your bag will you get told "Do you wish to fly today?"

Comments and experiences welcome on this one - I have feeling THIS is going to run.

The race to the bottom sinks to new lows - Spirit charges for HAND LUGGAGE.

Just when you think travel can't get any worse with airlines unbundling every charge (translation - asking you to pay more), Spirit Airlines has decided to take it one step further... by charging for large hand luggage items.

You read that right Hand Luggage.

Now, this is the "American" definition of Hand luggage, which is 1 large Rollaboard bag and 1 personal item (say a camerabag, purse or a laptop bag).

The personal item they are "allowing" you to carry Free of Charge providing it can be shoved under your seat. Anything that requires to be placed in the overhead bin requires money to be handed over (at various different rates depending when in the process you do it).

See: http://www.spiritair.com/Policiesbags.aspx - or rather - choose an airline that doesn't discriminate that low on unbundled things....

The worst part it is - other airlines will watch this experiment carefully... and I'd start to be concerned if it's a success....

Err... What the? (Women try to take body on plane)

As I'm trying to avoid any Election 2010 coverage, this is the top story in England at the moment

"Women try to take body on plane at Liverpool airport"

Obviously this warrented a look.

The police arrested two women after they tried to take the body of a dead relative onto a plane at Liverpool John Lennon Airport.

I'm  honestly *speechless*, and I can't come up with anything witty for this.... 

Well, a Monday improvement.

So I was ranting about Virgin Trains on Saturday about some of the junk they were fielding for a Saturday.

Lets fast forward to Monday.

• Engineering possession have ended, with the train routed along the fast route to Birmingham (with no silly diversions)
• A Proper Pendolino in 9 card (and not a crammed to the gills Voyager) 
• Train service booked for the 1 hour and 20 minute run, and not the laughable 2 hour 5 minute run on Saturday (Coincidently, an extra 10 minutes delay would had brought the Chilterns into a faster proposition) 
• Oh, and someone could be bothered to inspect my ticket.

A much better performance than Saturday to be polite.

Airplane p0rn - Continental 767

It's Easter Sunday, and as it's Sunday - it's time for some airplane p0rn.

This week - it's a Continental Boeing 767 being towed to the gate at Newark Airport.

More airplane p0rn of course next week!

Reasons to feel ripped off: Virgin Trains

So muggins has to go down south this weekend, and for once, I decided to take Virgin trains instead of Chiltern.

Now Virgin promises fast services to London from Birmingham. Which is good - on a Monday to Friday weekday.

Bring the weekend in... And things go downhill quickly.

Let's count the problems:
1) An Extra 35 minutes to the journey due to diversions
2) Not 1 diversion but 2! (via Nuneaton and Northampton)
3) an equipment change from a 9 car Pendolino to a 5 car Voyager (which reduces capacity)
4) Most annoyingly of all - no working at seat power!

I honestly give up with Virgin Trains some days....(with £41.90 for the privilege...)

QF32 (A380) has a little hard landing... and blows some tyres

I'll let the video do the talking.



Suffice to say, everyone is safe, and infact - the plane has re-entered service after check in what is described as a minor incident.

Virgin Blue goes for an upgrade - orders 50 737-800's to start with...

Virgin Blue seems to have a bit of money to splash with. After negotiating with Boeing, in the first instance they're purchasing 50 brand new 737-800's with 20 options and another 30 purchasing rights, taking it to a total of 105 aircraft possible.

The aircraft are swappable for 737-700's or 737-900's if needed.

Whilst the price of course has not been disclosed, they quote that they're paying less than the 2001 price for the same aircraft. Deliveries of these new aircraft will begin  in June 2011 to sometime in 2017.

Well it's nice to see that Virgin unlike a certain other operator of 737-800's can talk to its suppliers and cut a deal for some nice new aircraft. It also puts Virgin Blue in a ready growth position which will be needed in the next few years. 

National Rail Strike: It's OFF

You read that right - the action has been blocked by the High Court due to discrepancies the ballot (hey.. that's familiar from somewhere.... ).

Therefore strike timeables are abolished, and services should run as normal.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/8598456.stm has the latest updates as well as the fallout of the proposed strike.

So what next for BA and Unite?

Advert in Metro - 31/03/10

One word. NEGOTIATE.

Whilst the trust is at an all time low between the two sides, with talk of the next round of strikes, this is the time for both sides to get together and sort it - before BA's competitors come in to eat up the remaining customers.

BMI has made a jump on BA's customers, offering Gold and Silver status matches "there and then" for those who have been flying during the strike action, whilst EasyJet has been giving away SpeedyBoarding - and even Ryanair helping out with the odd rescue fare.

So Unison and BA.... NEGOTIATE.