New move to cut ash cloud disruption

The CAA said a Time Limited Zone (TLZ) had been agreed, in which it will be safe to allow flights for a limited time at higher ash densities than are currently allowed.

To operate in the new zone, airlines need to present the CAA with a safety case that includes the agreement of their aircraft and engine manufacturers.

UK airline Flybe is the first to achieve this and will be able to use the new zone from midday today.

The CAA said this meant that areas of UK airspace that would have previously been closed can safely open, further minimising flight disruption.

CAA chief executive Andrew Haines said: "I'm pleased that the huge efforts we're all making across aviation to keep flying safe while minimising the disruption from the volcano have resulted in further progress."

Last night's announcement followed criticism of the existing no-fly zone system by airline chiefs, including the bosses of Ryanair, British Airways and Thomson.

Hundreds of flights had to be cancelled or delayed yesterday morning, with Heathrow and Gatwick among the airports affected.

By 1pm all but the most northerly Scottish island airports were operating normally again as the threat moved away.

Earlier, British Airways chief executive Willie Walsh said blanket bans on flying were "a gross over-reaction to a very minor risk" and called for a "much better and more sensible" approach.