Brussels, 10 mei 2010

European Postal Operators were quick to respond to the delivery disruption of millions of letters and parcels throughout Europe and internationally when the European aviation crisis caused by the volcanic eruption in Iceland which began on Thursday, 15 April 2010.

The European Postal Operators responded successfully to the European aviation crisis caused by the volcanic eruption in Iceland which began on Thursday, 15 April 2010. Working in close cooperation with logistic partners and through their international network, the common objective was to minimize delays wherever possible for customers.  

This contingency plan meant that alternative mail delivery routes using trucks, vans, cars and trains were put into action.  In some cases, sea transport provided the best solution at that point of time. The delays mainly affected international sending more than domestic deliveries or deliveries to neighbouring countries.  Despite, on-going airport closures, the reliable network and contingency plan ran smoothly and delays were minimised.   Today, all is back to normal for all European Postal Operators.

At this crucial period of time, customers were kept informed at all times through media, website announcements and customer service operations.  

“Despite the challenges, European Postal Operators did a good job at responding to the disruption caused by this unforeseen event, minimising delays thanks to the close cooperation with international partners” states PostEurop Secretary General Botond Szebeny.  “The successful handling of this crisis situation has again reinforced the value of close cooperation between European Postal Operators in order to maintain customer service and provide reliable and good quality postal services,” he concluded. 

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For more information, please contact:

Cynthia Wee

Communications Manager

T: +32 2 773 11 92

cynthia.wee@posteurop.org