Experts say the ash cloud from the volcanic eruption in Iceland could potentially affect flights for several days, or even up to a week. On Friday afternoon, Finavia decided to extended the flight ban in Finland until at least 3 pm on Sunday.

According to Finavia director of airport operations Reijo Tasanen, thousands of people have been affected by the grounding of flights.

”About 800 flights were cancelled today, and 50,000 travellers were forced to change their travel plans. A large part of Europe has cancelled thousands of flights due to the volcanic ash. Airports are opening and closing according to which way the wind blows the ash. In addition to Finland, the airspace in Sweden, Denmark, Norway, Britain, Holland and Belgium has been closed," he said.

”Tallinn’s airspace was closed at 3 am. Southern Europe is still open for travel. The northern parts of France and Germany are also closed to flights.”

”My own daughter is travelling from South Africa. She sent a text message asking how she should get home. I told her to try to find a flight to southern Europe, so she can at least get to Europe,” he said.

Volcanic Ash Grounds Flights Across Finland

Flight Ban Scuttles President’s Flight Plans

No Fly Rules Fill Hotel Rooms