Ash cloud hits Norway and Denmark

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.

Norwegian airport operator Avinor said the ash from the Grimsvotn volcano disrupted traffic to and from Stavanger and Karmoey airports and is expected to spread to southern Norway later today.

Danish authorities said they have closed the airspace below 6km in north-western Denmark. There is no airport in that area, but the ash is causing delays and some cancellations at Copenhagen airport.

The cloud caused airlines in Scotland to cancel flights today and forced US President Barack Obama to cut short a visit to Ireland and fly to Britain early.