The volcanic ash plume that has drifted from Iceland over Northern Europe, halted nearly all air traffic but has also caused a rush to other means of travel - that of train and car. Even with additional trains added, a surge in reservations up 50% or more in a day, has overwhelmed much of Europe and Great Britain, creating a shortage of available seats. The same impact is now being seen on the roads with an increase in traffic as travelers find rail impossible to book.
Our suggestion for those members or clients that may be in Europe on business during this period, and seeking to return to the US or fly to other destinations, is to watch the weather patterns, especially wind patterns coming out of the north Atlantic and anticipate where the skies will be clear as their point of departure. For example the afternoon of Friday, April 16, Ireland is having a resumption of flights departing for points west. If you are unable to use air, rail or roads, sit tight, use the Internet and enjoy a cafe.
Links:
Rail - Eurostar, Virgin Trains
Coaches - In Europe
Back story - If you didn't know, the Eyjfjallajokull Iceland volcano, starting on Wednesday April 14, sending plumes of super fine ash resembling microscopic glass into the stratosphere where jets fly, at about 20,000 to 30,000 feet. The ash when clogging jet engines can cause catastrophic damage to engines, resulting in the closing of 1000's of airports across northern Europe, with more closing as the winds bring the ash rolling south east across Europe. Resulting in some 28,000 flight cancellations a day.
