France provides New Volcanic Ash Aviation Forecasts.

France, together with the UK, is among the first countries to provide Quantitative Volcanic Ash (QVA) aviation forecasts, now required under ICAO regulations from Nov. 27. The Toulouse VAAC, operated by Météo-France, is playing a leading role, delivering high-resolution ash data to help airlines manage airspace more safely. QVA forecasts cover 12 atmospheric layers up to 60,000 ft and include probabilistic forecasts showing the likelihood of ash concentrations exceeding safety thresholds. Unlike older methods based on visible ash, QVA uses engine- and airframe-based criteria, allowing more precise flight planning and reduced airspace closures. The London VAAC monitors Iceland and the North Atlantic, while France’s Toulouse VAAC ensures European airlines receive ICAO-standard guidance. Officials say if QVA had been available during the 2010 Eyjafjallajökull eruption—which disrupted flights for nearly a week and affected 10 million passengers—airspace disruption could have been halved. By providing these forecasts free to the aviation industry, France is taking a central role in preventing future volcanic ash crises in Europe.