Volcanic ash once again closed down European airspace yesterday (17 May), the day before the four-yearly show was set to kick off.

International visitors, including ProPrint group advertising manager Carmen Ciappara, were affected by the closures, with some flights diverted or cancelled en route to the exhibition in the UK.

Meanwhile, British Airways cabin staff have announced five days of rolling strikes starting on 18 May, the first day of the show in Birmingham.

Yet despite these hurdles, and the tough economic climate that has dogged organisers’ plans over the last few years, the show looks set for success.

Pre-registrations for the show were already at a record 70,000. Organisers added that they do not expect to see any drop-off in first day numbers.

Event director Trevor Crawford said: “Even if a strike goes ahead, BA have said they will add in extra flights and other carriers will step in to help out travelers.”

“We have an emergency travel advisor who is set up in a kiosk in the main atrium of the NEC. He will have updates throughout the day and will also be able to give practical solutions to any individual problems.”

Ipex 2010 runs from 18-25 May at the NEC in Birmingham.

Steven Kiernan is in Birmingham for the Ipex exhibition.

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