(PR.co.nz) As a result of further volcanic activity in Iceland, authorities have advised London Heathrow is currently closed for air travel until at least 11am Monday 17 May (UK time) / 10pm Monday 17 May (NZ time).
* NZ39 Auckland-Hong Kong-London and NZ2 Auckland-Los Angeles-London are still scheduled to operate tonight however it is possible they may be disrupted at Hong Kong and Los Angeles respectively should the airspace remain closed.
* The NZ2 flight currently in Los Angeles (Sunday 16 May US time) due for departure to London has been delayed 19 hours. Passengers on that service are being accommodated by Air New Zealand.
* NZ1 from London scheduled to depart at 4.15pm on Monday 17 May (UK time) will therefore be delayed a similar period of time, with a new departure time to be advised.
Air New Zealand continues to operate Air New Zealand flights into Asia, North America and Canada tonight. Passengers with onward flights to UK/Europe on another carrier need to be aware that these services could be affected also and should check with that carrier.
Further updates will be provided on the Air New Zealand website as information becomes available. A further update is expected at approximately 10pm this evening (NZ time).
Passenger information:
Should passengers still decide to travel on NZ2 and NZ39 this evening and there are disruptions to their plans, costs incurred will be at their expense.
If passengers decide not to travel, they will be entitled to re-book on another Air New Zealand flight when airspace reopens (conditions apply) or, if they have not yet commenced their travel and are ticketed on an Air New Zealand ticket, will be entitled to claim a refund. Passengers should contact their original booking agent for assistance, or alternatively contact Air New Zealand on 0800 737 000.
Media Release 17 May 2010 3.30pm from Air New Zealand.
Air NZ Public Affairs Telephone: (09) 336 2761