Airlines Cancel Flights to and from Bali Amid Volcanic Ash Concerns
Flights to and from Bali have been disrupted as major airlines, including Qantas, Jetstar, and Virgin Australia, cancelled operations due to hazardous ash clouds from Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki. The volcano, located near the popular holiday destination, sent a massive 9-kilometer ash column into the sky over the weekend, leading to severe travel interruptions for thousands of passengers.
Mount Lewotobi’s Eruption: Ongoing Threat to Air Travel
Mount Lewotobi’s recent eruption, which tragically claimed 10 lives, has continued to produce ash clouds, causing visibility and safety concerns for aircraft. The dense ash plume hovering above Bali has led airlines to suspend flights, prioritizing passenger safety as volcanic particles in the air can damage aircraft engines and reduce visibility.
Australian Bureau of Meteorology Issues Ash Drift Warning
Australia’s Bureau of Meteorology has issued a warning that the ash cloud could drift towards northern Australia, potentially impacting more flights and air quality in the region. This alert adds an extra layer of caution for airlines operating in affected airspace, as they monitor weather patterns to ensure safe travel routes.
Jetstar and Other Airlines Announce Extended Cancellations
Jetstar has cancelled all Bali flights until at least 12:00 Australian Eastern Daylight Time on Thursday (04:00 GMT). Other carriers, including Cathay Pacific from Hong Kong, IndiGo from India, and Malaysia’s AirAsia, have also cancelled flights, advising passengers to check for updates as the situation evolves. With further delays possible, travelers are encouraged to stay in touch with airlines and monitor local airport announcements.
Safety First: How Volcanic Ash Impacts Aviation
Volcanic ash poses serious risks for aircraft, as the abrasive particles can damage engines, clog sensors, and obscure cockpit windows. For these reasons, airlines around the world have strict protocols in place to avoid flying through volcanic ash clouds. In this instance, the unpredictability of Mount Lewotobi’s activity and the height of the ash plume prompted widespread cancellations, underscoring the importance of adhering to aviation safety standards.
What’s Next: Monitoring Mount Lewotobi’s Activity
As airlines and meteorological agencies continue to monitor the situation, travelers are advised to stay updated on flight statuses and potential changes in volcanic activity. Local authorities are closely watching Mount Lewotobi for further eruptions, while airlines remain cautious about resuming flights until the skies over Bali are safe for travel.
Also learn about Indonesia’s Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki Erupts, Spewing Massive Ash Column.
