Ash Cloud affects Air Freight

With airspace over the United Kingdom closed since Thursday due to a cloud of Icelandic volcanic ash, some fresh food imports have been affected.  According to the Freight Transport Association, imports of exotic fruits and fresh flowers are most likely to be in short supply.  It would take at least a fortnight to clear the backlog of air freight destined for the UK, which presents a huge logistical challenge.  Some fresh produce may have to be destroyed.  However, according to a spokesman for the Dutch fresh produce industry, the vast majority of their freight travels by road, air and rail, so the effect will be minimal.  But the majority of imports from Africa are air freighted, and African farmers are concerned about the impact of the air freight shut down.  Some UK airports are beginning to open today.