Global General

Chile's volcanic ash disrupts NZ airline flights

(Agencies)
Updated: 2011-06-12 10:45

WELLINGTON, New Zealand - Some airline flights to and from New Zealand have been canceled as volcanic ash from Chile's erupting Cordon Caulle volcano spreads.

Australian-based Qantas Airways says it has canceled 22 flights to and from New Zealand and Tasmania and eight flights within New Zealand's South Island as the dust cloud spreads through the atmosphere. Budget carrier Jetstar has canceled domestic flights to South Island airports.

National carrier Air New Zealand says it has not halted flights and will adjust flight routes and altitudes to ensure aircraft remain clear of any ash.

New Zealand's Civil Aviation Authority said Sunday that ash plumes could affect airplane cruising levels for both jet and turboprop aircraft at between 20,000 and 35,000 feet (6,000 and 10,600 meters).