Iceland Volcano: The Latest

The potential eruption of the Fagradalsfjall volcano near Grindavík has, understandably, caused concerns amongst travellers due to fly in the coming weeks. Iceland’s volcanic history brings to mind the eruption of Eyjafjallajokull in 2010, which caused an ash cloud 18,000km into the sky and produced a hundred times more ash than meteorologists originally anticipated.

What’s happening in Iceland?

Since the 24th of October, the Icelandic Met Office has recorded thousands of earthquakes on the Reykjanes Peninsula, which is the most populated area of the country. Grindavík has been completely evacuated after the IMO declared a state of emergency, following the increased threat of an imminent volcanic eruption - the area is now being closely monitored by professionals while visitors are advised to stay away.

Can I still go on holiday?

It would appear so! Keflavik International Airport (the closest to the site) is operating as normal despite the increased volcanic activity, and access routes to and from the airport remain open. Airlines continue to sell flights to Iceland, and the Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office have not advised against all, or all but essential travel to the region. Although they have said that “while there is no current eruption, it is increasingly possible that one could occur. You should monitor local media for updates and follow the authorities advice on travel to the area.”

You also cannot claim if your travel provider cancels the flight for you. In this event, they have the duty of care to re-book or refund your flights. Some policies offer cover due to a change in advice from the UK government - check your Policy Wording to see if this would apply to your holiday.

Experts say that an eruption is unlikely to cause issues to flights and air traffic, and that we are much better informed about ash-aircraft interactions than we were before - but it’s worth remembering that nature works in unpredictable ways, and we should always consider the situation as it evolves.

Can I claim anything if I don't want to go?

As a general rule, you cannot make a claim on travel insurance for disinclination to travel. You also cannot claim if your travel provider cancels the flight for you. In this event, they have the duty of care to re-book or refund your flights. Some policies offer cover due to a change in advice from the UK government - check your Policy Wording to see if this would apply to your holiday.

22nd November 2023