Aircraft are still allowed to fly, they're just not allowed to operate commercial public flights to fee paying customers. Most of the big airlines have been running test flights without passengers on board to check safety this is perfectly acceptable.

Also the ban doesn't apply to privately owned planes or private corporate flights. My neighbours owns a small light aircraft and has been flying it over the weekend without any problems.

"Aircraft are still allowed to fly, they're just not allowed to operate commercial public flights to fee paying customers. Most of the big airlines have been running test flights without passengers on board to check safety this is perfectly acceptable."

I have found no evidence that this is true. The latest CAA update states that they are overseeing the test flights, and one took place on Sunday between Heathrow and Cardiff using a Boeing 747. It would not make sense for all the 'big airlines' to run their own flight tests thus exposing their pilots to unnecessary risk when there is an aviation authority doing it for them.

 http://www.caa.co.uk/application.aspx?catid=14&pagetype=65&appid=7&mode=detail&nid=1861


"Also the ban doesn't apply to privately owned planes or private corporate flights. My neighbours owns a small light aircraft and has been flying it over the weekend without any problems."

This is inaccurate. The restrictions (it has not been referred to as a ban) are for all aircraft with jet engines regardless of ownership. Propeller driven planes are not affected by volcanic ash so are not restricted. Many privately owned planes are are propeller driven.