Volcanic ash cloud nears Africa, affects flights to Morocco

Morocco closed several airports today, Tuesday, 11th May, as volcanic ash from Iceland's Eyjafjallajökull glacier volcano approached air space over northwest Africa.

Reuters and News24 report that closure of Moroccan air space was necessary to ensure the security of passengers. Morocco's main international hub the Mohammed V International or Casablanca airport will be closed from 7a.m. to noon GMT while flights from Tetouan and Essaouira airports were affected from 4a.m. GMT until approximately noon. Recent emissions from Eyjafjallajökull has caused a major and ongoing disruption to air traffic over Europe and the UK costing airlines billions in revenue, and causing frustrations for travelers. Digital Journal reported that the abrasive ash caused disruptions over parts of the UK and Europe over the weekend and is expected to cause further disruptions this week.