Ash fears prolong Isle of Man air passenger fall

Fears over a return of volcanic ash have seen a reduction in passenger numbers during May at Isle of Man Airport, figures have shown.

Passenger numbers fell by 9,260 or 14.7% on the previous year, the airport revealed.

The fall came despite the airport suspending flights for just a few days in May, when the Icelandic volcano was largely inactive.

The airport said people had been put off flying "due to the uncertainty".

Airport director Ann Reynolds, said: "Although there was a marked reduction in ash cloud disruption during May, people were reluctant to book their flights due to the uncertainty caused by the volcano.

"I am pleased to reassure everyone that all the indications are that the volcano activity has eased to the point where there is little or no eruption.

"We are therefore very hopeful that the crisis is over and confidence in booking flights is now returning."