The air transport industry was beset by confusion and arguments today as passengers braced themselves for days of uncertainty caused by Iceland’s latest volcanic ash cloud.

Volcanic ash could force the cancellation of up to 500 commercial flights in parts of the United Kingdom and Scandinavia, the European air traffic agency said today.

The ash cloud from the erupting volcano in Iceland has swept over western Norway and Denmark, stalling air traffic in part of Norway and causing delays in Copenhagen, officials said.

AN man attacked two pilots and a passenger with an axe on a domestic Norwegian flight yesterday.