The huge ash cloud from an Icelandic volcano has caused air travel chaos across Europe and beyond.

Airlines across China have cancelled or delayed flights to most European destinations, leaving thousands of passengers stranded.

In total, at least 23 flights between Beijing and Europe have been cancelled.

It’s left people feeling helpless.

[Wang Chuan, Passenger]:
"I can only wait. There is nothing I can do. I am concerned about safety issues after the volcanic eruption. I will wait for the flight on May 6, or some other time."

Another passenger wants to get to London as soon as possible.

[Sun Guoliang, London University Student]:
"I live in Beijing. I came here yesterday. I am here to check again today. My flight was set to fly today, but it's been cancelled. Air traffic will resume in May, but by then the exams will be over. It is not safe to fly after a volcanic eruption, so we will have to wait till the ash is cleaned up. As for my exam, I'll have to see... the time is pretty tight."

Pressure was building on EU authorities for a solution because the closure of most of Europe's airspace has cost the airline industry hundreds of millions of dollars. Millions of passengers have been stranded, and importers and exporters have been hurt all over the world.

Officials are hoping to significantly increase flights to half the normal number on Monday and the EU is discussing measures to tackle the five-day air travel crisis.

Volcanic ash can strip off aerodynamic surfaces and paralyze an aircraft engine. Aircraft electronics and windshields can also be damaged.