Disruption in Indian Air Travel Due to Ethiopian Volcanic Eruption

Air travel across India faced significant disruptions on Tuesday as authorities initiated regulatory checks following a volcanic eruption in Ethiopia. This incident has understandably raised concerns among travelers and airlines alike.

Impact of the Ethiopian Volcanic Eruption

The Hayli Gubb volcano, located in the Afar region near the Eritrean border, erupted for the first time in nearly 12,000 years on Sunday. This long-dormant volcano released a massive ash cloud that soared approximately 14 kilometers (9 miles) into the atmosphere.

Witnesses captured the eruption on social media, and satellite images revealed the ash drifting across several countries. According to the Volcanic Ash Advisory Center, this cloud traveled over the Red Sea towards Yemen, Oman, and further into Pakistan and northern India.

Health Precautions Issued

In response to the eruption, the regional government in Afar advised residents, particularly those suffering from asthma and bronchitis, to take necessary precautions to mitigate health risks. Local administrator Mohammed Seid confirmed that, while there were no reported casualties from the eruption, it might pose economic challenges for local farmers.

Air Travel Disruptions in India

In response to the volcanic activity and ash cloud, Air India, the national carrier, canceled a total of 11 flights on Monday and Tuesday. This decision was made to conduct precautionary checks on aircraft that operated over areas affected by the ash, as directed by India’s aviation regulator.

Budget airline Akasa also scrapped flights heading to Middle Eastern destinations such as Jeddah, Kuwait, and Abu Dhabi during this period. The volcanic ash had made its way to parts of Pakistan and northern India, according to tracking services like Flightradar24.

Expected Clearance of Ash Cloud

The Indian Meteorological Department reported that the ash cloud is moving towards China and is anticipated to clear from Indian skies by 1400 GMT on Tuesday. This forecast provides some relief for travelers and airlines eager to resume normal operations.

Conclusion

The eruption of the Hayli Gubb volcano in Ethiopia has not only affected the local environment but has also brought about significant disruptions to air travel in India. With precautions in place and the ash cloud expected to disperse soon, airlines and passengers can hope for a swift return to normalcy.