Manx airspace was opened again today.

The decision was taken around 6.35am and allowed local airline Manx2.com to start running services to Blackpool and Belfast.

The first flight got away at 7.20am and it was hoped a regular shuttle service could be run between the Isle of Man and Blackpool throughout the day.

Manx2 said it had been given permission to fly at the lower levels at which it operates and had put on eight extra flights to Blackpool.

Most of the flights were expected to get away without a problem although the situation was under regular review, because of the weather. 

Airport director Ann Reynolds said the move to open the airspace above the Island was taken after the cloud of volcanic ash from Iceland moved away from our area: