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A massive ash plume from Ethiopia’s long-dormant Hayli Gubbi volcano has drifted across the Arabian Peninsula and reached parts of India’s upper airspace, prompting cancellations, diversions, and advisories for airlines and passengers.
The volcano erupted over the weekend for the first time in recorded history, sending volcanic ash and sulphur dioxide up to 14 km into the atmosphere. Strong winds pushed the cloud across Yemen and Oman, eventually affecting high-altitude flight routes used by aircraft flying in and out of India.
Flight Cancellations & Disruptions
Indian carriers have already begun adjusting operations:
- Air India cancelled 11 flights over Nov 24–25 and is inspecting aircraft that flew near the affected region.
- Akasa Air suspended flights on key Middle Eastern routes, including Jeddah, Kuwait, and Abu Dhabi.
- Other airlines, including IndiGo and international carriers, are closely monitoring the situation and may adjust flight paths or timings.
Major airports such as Delhi and Mumbai have issued advisories warning travellers of potential delays or last-minute schedule changes.
DGCA Issues Safety Advisory
India’s aviation regulator, the DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation), has instructed airlines to:
- Avoid airspace and altitudes contaminated by volcanic ash
- Re-plan routes and fuel requirements accordingly
- Report any suspected ash encounters, such as unusual engine noise or cabin odour
- Inspect aircraft surfaces, engines, and filters if they operated near the affected areas
Airports have also been asked to check runways and aprons for possible ash deposits.
Is It Safe for Travellers?
Experts note that the ash plume is primarily at very high altitudes (15,000–45,000 ft), suggesting no significant ground-level health impacts are expected in Indian cities.
However, volcanic ash can be hazardous for aircraft engines, which is why rerouting and cancellations are being taken as precautionary measures.
When Will Conditions Improve?
According to meteorological forecasts, the ash cloud is expected to gradually clear India’s airspace over the next 24–36 hours as wind patterns shift.
What Should Travellers Do?
- Check your flight status frequently, as airlines may make last-minute decisions.
- Expect delays or rerouting, especially on the Middle East, Africa, and Europe sectors.
- Follow airline and airport advisories for real-time updates.
As global air routes adjust to the unusual volcanic event, Indian travellers are advised to stay alert and plan until conditions stabilise.
