Air travel continues to remain at a standstill as airlines explore ways to bypass the volcanic plume which was created by a volcano residing under the Eyjafjallajokull glacier earlier this week. Airlines traveling in and out of Europe as well as other regions affected by the eruption have cited visibility concerns as well as potential mechanical problems from the airborne debris created the volcano as the reason for widespread cancellations.

Many people continue to be stranded at airports worldwide as they await word for when it will be safe to fly. It is estimated that the eruption has already cost the industry $2 billion and counting. Although some airlines have conducted test flights to gauge the safety of flying certain routes, there is still no definitive word on when air travel will resume as normal. Over 60,000 flights were canceled yesterday due to the volcanic smoke plume.

Part of the uncertainty rests in the fact that meteorological forces can be unpredictable, moving the smoke plume at their will. According to some officials, much of Europe can expect to be free from the plume as early as today.

If you happen to be stranded at an airport, we encourage you to be patient as the airlines try to find solutions to this problem. They’re losing substantial amounts of money due to the eruption, however, they have no interest in putting their customers or employees in danger.