Irish airports to remain open until at least 6pm

The Irish Aviation Authority says Irish airports will stay open until at least 6pm this evening.

The volcanic ash cloud isn't expected to impact on Irish airspace today but it's causing difficulty for some trans-atlantic flights and has affected flights in parts of southern Europe.

Aer Lingus was last night forced to cancel certain flights between Spain and Ireland.

Ryanair said it has cancelled dozens of flights to and from destinations in Spain, Portugal and the Canary Islands.

Latest meteorological charts showed the ash cloud extending across the Atlantic into Spain and Portugal, and further east over France.

Ryanair said on its website: “Based on current Euro Control and meteorological forecasts Ryanair expects airspace over Faro (Portugal) and Madrid to be closed/restricted during Tuesday May 11.”

Anyone travelling today is being once again urged to check with their airline before leaving home to travel to the airport.

Another update on Irish airspace is expected at 8.30am.