Ash cloud shuts Spanish airports

Twenty airports in the north of Spain, including international hub Barcelona, have been closed as the Icelandic volcanic ash cloud spreads south, the country’s airport authority said today.

Aena said in a statement that northern airport closures would be maintained until midnight (10pm Irish time). Other airports affected include Santiago, Vigo, Bilbao and Lerida.

Travellers were advised to check flight details before heading to airports.

Aena said more than 670 flights had been cancelled by 2pm (12pm Irish time) today.