Irish airspace to remain closed until this evening

The Irish Aviation Authority have extended the closure of Irish airspace until 6pm this evening as disruption enters its fifth day.

European Transport Ministers will hold a video conference later to discuss the ash crisis.

Airlines have been calling for a review of no-fly bans after conducting test flights at the weekend without any apparent problems from Iceland's ash cloud.

Austria has reopened its airports this morning and Italy is planning to do the same later.

Stranded Irish citizens are being urged to contact a special helpline set up by the Department of Foreign Affairs.

The Consular Crisis Centre is offering travel and visa advice on 01 - 408 29 99.

Aer Lingus has already cancelled all flights today, with the exception of its Washington to Madrid service, while Ryanair has extended its flight ban until at least 1pm on Wednesday.

And Ryanair is emailing all its passengers to let them know that no flights will operate until 1pm on Wednesday at the earliest.

Ryanair spokesperson Stephen McNamara has said passengers can rebook or claim a refund.