Call for an instant quote 0345 90 80 161
Open Mon to Fri 09:00 - 17:30 | Sat 09:00 - 16:00 (GMT)
Or call 0345 90 80 161
28 April 2011 12:35
EasyJet is hoping to installing volcanic ash cloud detection systems on its planes
EasyJet hopes to do everything it can to prevent last year's ash cloud disaster from reoccurring.
The low-cost carrier is looking at installing ash detection systems on its planes.
The airline said earlier that it planned to have the detection system known as Avoid, (Airborne Volcanic Object Identifier and Detector) installed on 12 of its planes by 2010.
Although there has been some progress, the technology has not yet been installed on any passenger aircraft.
With the Easter break coming up, travellers planning summer getaways should ensure they have a comprehensive travel insurance policy.
The Avoid system comprises infra-red technology that when fitted to aircraft, provides images to pilots and flight control centres.
The images help pilots detect an ash cloud, up to 60 miles ahead of the plane and at altitudes of between 5,000ft and 50,000ft, allowing them to change course and avoid the cloud.
EasyJet was one of the many airlines hit in April last year following the Icelandic ash cloud crisis which saw airports shut and thousands of flights cancelled.
The budget airline is investing £1 million in Avoid, which is the brainchild of scientist Fred Pata, of the Norwegian Institute for Air Research.
EasyJet said the Avoid prototype is ready for testing but needs approval from the European Aviation Safety Agency is also hoping for financial support by the European Commission. EasyJet is working on both these objectives.
16 April 2019
Heading to Madrid? Here's our guide to six must-see places you should visit in the Spanish capital, from food markets to fine art and plenty in between.
[more...]
10 April 2019
Experience the magic of Madrid's Fiesta de San Isidro 2019! Discover where to stay, what to eat and what to see as you explore one of Spain's greatest festivals.
Experience Seville's intoxicating Feria de Abril and discover Andalucía's most famous festival! Here's your ultimate guide to La Feria.
01 April 2019
Songkran is Thailand's famous New Year's festival - and the world's biggest water fight. Here's everything you need to know before you plan your trip.
Travelling to Thailand? Learn the important local traditions and cultures to ensure you act respectfully in 'The land of a thousand smiles.'
Travelling overseas with young children? Make going through the airport easy and stress-free by following these top tips for surviving the airport with kids when flying.
25 March 2019
Discover the best places to learn to scuba dive! Check out our list of top dive locations around the world that are perfect for scuba diving beginners.
Looking for some late-season skiing? Here are some of the best places for spring skiing in Europe where you can enjoy reliable snow cover.
19 March 2019
Looking for adventure? Create your perfect Scandinavian weekend with these alternative city break ideas.
Lower your blood pressure with these fresh, healthy foods you can add to your diet.
02 March 2019
A Flybe flight was forced to abort take-off due to the cabin filling with "smoke" while it was accelerating along the runway at Exeter Airport.
01 March 2019
Holidaymakers will soon be able to take advantage of the first direct flight from London to Scotland's Western Isles after Loganair announced three new routes.