Will ash cloud affect ski flights next winter?
Monday May 31, 2010 - Email this article to a friend

The first offers that promote use of The Chunnel due to possible disruption to ski flights from any volcano ash cloud have appeared.

The eruption of the volcano in Iceland caused massive problems last April for air passengers, including many skiers and snowboarders who were returning after the Easter holiday break.

Eyjafjallajokull has quietened down but it is still erupting and it may flare up again. 

There are also real concerns that a neighbouring volcano, Katla, may erupt.

It is a much larger volcano and could cause more severe problems, according to some scientists.

Safer bet?The 2010/11 season may be 7 months away but some people are already making arrangements.

Many companies are offering early booking discounts.

With a warning about air travel.

One company, Erna Low, is offering up to 25% off the accommodation price on a large selection of residences across the Alps, a free summer or winter weekend in a P&V residence, free child's ski equipment (per paying adult) as well as a free FlexiPlus upgrade for all cars booked on Eurotunnel crossings.

This offers is only valid for the first 100 bookings.

It also says the road journey will not be disrupted by any volcano ash cloud or strike action.

Let's hope it isn't so cold that the trains don't work, like last December.

Clear road, clear skies?

"Being a self-drive specialist, Erna Low offers exceptionally competitive rates on the Eurotunnel thus ensuring a smooth journey to the continent without fear of ash or airline strike disruption," said a company statement.

Meanwhile Eurotunnel has reported that while confronted by ongoing uncertainty, the travelling public is voting with its feet.

The Channel Tunnel operator has observed a change in customer behaviour since the Icelandic volcanic eruption in April with a rise in bookings.

European airlines suffered a 12% drop in passengers in April due to disruption caused by the Icelandic ash cloud.

However not only has the activity of the volcano subsided but also the safety rules have changed about when planes can or can't fly.

Safety experts now judge that the rules were too strict and the jet engines more capable and robust than first thought.

Can deal with more ash than originally thought

Perhaps warning people that volcanic eruptions may disrupt their travel plans to get to ski resorts next winter is a bit much but it may be a factor in people's decisions.

However here at PlanetSKI we are big fans of driving to the Alps as it can easily be done in a day, is often cheaper than flying and means you can take all the gear you want.

Cars are also volcanic ash cloud proof.

But while we are on the subject how do you pronounce Mount Eyjafjallajokull? Go on have a go!

Eyja - means Islands
Fjalla - means Mountains
Jökull - means Glacier

Below are some very dramatic shots of the Icelandic Volcano Eyjafjallajökull dated May 16. Watch it to the end there is some spectacular footage. Its not cooling down.

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