The volcanic ash cloud that has wreaked havoc across Europe in recent weeks has reappeared over parts of Southern Spain and impacted air travel once again.

Close to 15 airports in Spain have been shut down because of the dangerous plume, and the cloud has now ruined many Irish holiday makers’ plans for a sunshine break.

Aer Lingus and Ryanair have decided to cancel flights to holiday destinations on the Spanish mainland, Canary Islands and spots in Portugal, as well as service to Spanish and Portuguese cities.

The Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) is keeping close tabs on the cloud, but Irish airspace is expected to remain open until midnight at the very least.

However, the IAA says that Irish airspace could be adversely impacted by the ash cloud again next week.