How is volcanic ash impacting air travel in India?
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Synopsis
In a surprising turn of events, volcanic ash from Ethiopia has caused widespread disruption to air travel in India. Multiple flights have been cancelled, and significant advisories have been issued to ensure passenger safety. Stay informed on how this volcanic eruption from the Hayli Gubbi volcano is reshaping travel plans across the nation.
Key Takeaways
- Volcanic ash from Ethiopia is causing flight disruptions across India.
- Multiple airlines have cancelled and diverted flights.
- The DGCA has issued an ASHTAM alert for aviation safety.
- Airports are inspecting areas for ash accumulation.
- Passenger safety remains the top priority for airlines and authorities.
New Delhi, Nov 25 (NationPress) Air travel across India has encountered significant disruptions as a plume of volcanic ash from Ethiopia moves towards northern regions of the country. Several flights have been cancelled, prompting the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to issue a crucial advisory for airlines and airports.
At least six domestic and international flights operated by IndiGo have been cancelled, while Akasa Air has halted its flights to Jeddah, Kuwait, and Abu Dhabi for November 24 and 25.
“In light of the recent eruption of the #HayliGubbi volcano in #Ethiopia, ash clouds are reported to be advancing towards western parts of India,” IndiGo stated in a social media update.
“We recognize that this information may raise concerns, and we assure you that your safety remains our utmost priority,” it further remarked.
Additional flights were diverted from their planned routes to evade the ash cloud, affecting international operations as well.
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines has cancelled its Amsterdam-Delhi flight (KL 871) along with the return service (KL 872) due to the ash cloud.
The DGCA has issued an ASHTAM alert, a specialized aviation warning concerning volcanic ash.
Airlines have been instructed to steer clear of affected flight altitudes and adhere to all safety protocols pertaining to volcanic ash.
The regulator also mandated airlines to report any suspected ash encounters immediately, including engine issues or unusual odors in the cabin.
Due to restrictions in airspace, several international carriers began rerouting flights through Pakistani airspace.
However, Indian airlines are prohibited from utilizing these routes, leading to more cancellations and delays.
The volcanic ash originated from the Hayli Gubbi volcano in Ethiopia, which erupted on Sunday after nearly 12,000 years.
The eruption produced a thick ash plume that spread across the Red Sea towards Yemen and Oman, eventually reaching the northern Arabian Sea.
Weather agencies have reported that dense portions of the cloud are currently moving over Delhi, Haryana, and surrounding areas of Uttar Pradesh.
While experts suggest that the ash could impact air quality, they believe the risk remains low as the plume is still at significant altitude.
Airports have been advised to inspect runways, taxiways, and aircraft parking zones for any signs of ash accumulation.
Operators have also been directed to consistently monitor satellite imagery and weather updates for the latest information.
Point of View
The situation surrounding the volcanic ash cloud from Ethiopia is a reminder of the interconnectedness of global events and their impact on local affairs. The safety of passengers remains paramount, and as the nation navigates these disruptions, it is crucial to stay informed and prepared. NationPress will continue to provide timely updates as the situation evolves.
NationPress
25/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the flight cancellations in India?
The flight cancellations were caused by a volcanic ash plume from the Hayli Gubbi volcano in Ethiopia, which is drifting towards northern India.
Are international flights also affected?
Yes, several international flights have been cancelled or diverted due to the ash cloud, including KLM Royal Dutch Airlines' flights between Amsterdam and Delhi.
What safety measures are being implemented?
Airlines have been instructed to avoid certain altitudes and report any ash encounters immediately. Airports are also inspecting runways for ash accumulation.
How will this affect air quality?
While the ash could impact air quality, experts believe the risk is low since the plume remains at high altitude.
What is the DGCA's role in this situation?
The DGCA has issued advisories and alerts to ensure passenger safety and guide airlines on how to handle the situation regarding volcanic ash.
