Airspace in Hungary closed until Monday noon

Hungarian airspace is closed from all traffic until Monday noon (12.00 hours local time) by the National Transport Authority’s Civil Aviation Directorate, hence Budapest Airport is closed too. This means that all flights are cancelled in Hungary and Budapest Airport has no incoming our outbound flights at all. The airspace closure was implemented due to the volcanic eruption in Icleand which has sent dangerous ash clouds into the air between 18.000 and 35.000 feet, at altitudes used by most airliners. Volcanic ash may seriously harm jet engines thus air traffic was halted over almost all Europe. Stranded air passengers who wish to continue their journey should choose between bus or railway service.

We advise passengers who were due to fly this time should contact their airline. Because of this situation, we suggest nobody to travel to the airport, as no air traffic expected until Monday noon. According to the Office of Immigration and Nationality For EEA nationals who currently hold a still valid, but in a few days – during the given situation – exceeding Schengen or LTV (Hungary) visa for a period determined up to 3 months, we provide an opportunity to extend their visa for free of charge. The visa extension takes place on April 17-18, 2010 at the Office of Immigration and Nationality (Budapest, Budafoki u. 60., tel.: +36 1 463-9299).

During flight restrictions strengthened international rail service is available at MÁV Start. Rail ticket offices operate in extended opening hours.