Flights all around the world were restricted as the air traffic came to a halt.

There were 41 exhibitors from India, many of whom had to cancel their plans and stalls at the show which had been paid for. PrintWeek India spoke to five publishers Ane Books, Sterling Publishers, Snab Publishers, Edit International and Ananda Publishers - all of whom were very disappointed with the situation. A senior official on grounds of anonymity said: "It has been a big blow. We have spent and lost a lot of money while organising our stall at the LBF."

Besides some Americans only the Dutch and French could make it in good numbers to the fair.

According to reports in approximate numbers, only seven out of 100 clients were able to get to the fair.

The London Book Fair did continue to offer a packed schedule of seminars and events despite the volcano interrupting the show plans.