Flying through/around the ash?

Looks like all the VS transatlantic routes came in over Iceland.

v routes 0509.jpg (21.48 KiB) Viewed 1633 times

Hope they got a good view of the volcano.
VS66 taking the Portugal route

Outward VS flights have now started flying over the ash cloud - direct route out and up above FL340 when over Bristol & S. Wales.
Hopefully that will relieve some of the pressure on the timetable.

I have seen it reported that the SDR's (Service Difficulty Reports) have increased across the board for all of the trans-atlantic longhaul operators. Conductive ash in actuator boxes and acidics in air systems.

The biggest write ups are for air systems but engine abrasion is being noted. One blade on an engine costs about $10k and more to replace.

Engine joint point erosion and corrosion is also mentioned. This is getting very expensive for airlines.

VS 11 has been v. late in past two (maybe more) days--is this due to ash?

Whoops--just noted post referencing added time due to route.
Thanks.

VS 11 has been v. late in past two (maybe more) days--is this due to ash?

Whoops--just noted post referencing added time due to route.
Thanks.

Some spectacular live images of the cause tonight here.
eg:

VS043 to Las Vegas is running 6 hours late today due to depart at 17:30.
On its current pattern by the time I'm due to go on Mon 17th the flight will be leaving at Midnight.
I hope something gets sorted before then or its going to be one heck of a long day

My husband is due to return to the UK on the VS16 tonight, and the VS15 hasn't left LGW yet.

Showing a departure time of 03.45am from MCO, not really a problem for us apart from I have to take him to the airport but surprised that they would fly at this time.

I presume that there are no restrictions to flying times in and out of MCO airport, does anyone know?

Jilly

our flight saturday took off at 17.20 and was routed out over Portugal ( and the flight plan was changed en route apparently) it ended up taking just over 10 hours..... TR to follow but pleased to report service on board was superb