MAS and AirAsia ground more planes due to Iceland’s ash cloud

18 April 2010

PETALING JAYA: More Malaysia Airlines and AirAsia X flights to Europe may have to be cancelled as airports in the continent remain closed.

Both airlines have already cancelled all flights to London, Amster­dam, Paris and Frankfurt since Thursday due to the volcanic ash cloud from Iceland.

MAS director of operations Captain Azharuddin Osman said based on current weather conditions and reports, there was a possibility that today’s flights would also be affected.

“As such, before proceeding to the airport, customers should call the MAS call centre 1300-88-3000 (within Malaysia) or 603-7843 3000 (outside Malaysia) for the latest flight information,” he said in a statement posted on MAS’ website.

Captain Azharuddin said passengers of the affected flights could make changes on their original destination by flying into Rome instead but this would be subject to seat availability.

He said MAS was also giving affected passengers three other options – a full refund, exchange of tickets for future flights or re-booking on the next available flight.

Those booked on these flights are advised to watch out for updates on www.malaysiaairlines.com under the tab “Book/Flight Status”.

AirAsia X said its flights between Kuala Lumpur and London Stansted starting today would be subjected to the opening of the UK airspace.

“AirAsia X will contact guests on the affected sector with further instructions.

“We will also be updating our website www.airasia.com with the latest developments regularly,” it said in a statement.

The airlines had cancelled its flights D7 2008 (Kuala Lumpur to London Stansted) and D7 2009 (London Stansted to Kuala Lumpur) scheduled on Thursday, Friday and yesterday.

By Zuhrin Azam Ahmad

The Star