The no-fly zone across much of Britain after Iceland's huge volcanic eruption this week is set to remain in force over the weekend, placing yet more strain on road, rail and ferry networks already struggling to cope with thousands of stranded passengers.

Lord Adonis, the transport secretary, who met officials at the Civil Aviation Authority, Met Office, and National Air Traffic Services today, said: "It is likely significant disruption to most UK air services will continue for at least the next 48 hours".

Airlines have been counting the cost of the stoppages, with analysts estimating that British Airways was losing £10m a day. The International Air Transport Association said European airlines are together losing $200m a day. European airlines have been the hardest hit financially, facing $2.2bn losses this year, the Guardian reported.