The recent eruption of the Hayli Gubbi volcano in Ethiopia has led to significant ash clouds impacting air travel as disruptions are felt across northern India. The volcano, located approximately 800 kilometers northeast of Addis Ababa, erupted on Sunday, sending ash plumes soaring up to 14 kilometers into the atmosphere. The nearby village of Afdera experienced a complete ash cover, which has now traveled over 4,000 kilometers to reach New Delhi.
As the ash cloud moves eastward, it is expected to clear Indian skies by 7:30 PM, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), before continuing its trajectory towards China. In anticipation of the ensuing disruptions, multiple airlines, including Air India, Akasa Air, IndiGo, and KLM, have canceled several flights. Air India has been proactive in assisting passengers, offering updates on flight statuses and arrangements for accommodations.
A comprehensive list of canceled flights has been released, including international routes from Newark, New York, Dubai, and Doha, as well as domestic services between several major Indian cities. Particularly in Delhi, concerns about air quality are heightened as smog thickens in certain areas, contributing to an Air Quality Index (AQI) rating of 323, classified as 'Very Poor.'
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has issued urgent advisories to Indian airlines and airports, advising them to avoid flying through volcanic ash-affected zones. They were also instructed to modify flight planning, routing, and fuel management to account for the ash clouds. Furthermore, airlines are required to report any issues related to suspected ash encounters, such as engine performance anomalies or unusual cabin odors.
Travelers in India are being closely monitored, with safety as the top priority. Reporting mechanisms enable airlines to manage potential risks effectively due to the ash from the Hayli Gubbi eruption, which has affected regions beyond India, including parts of Yemen, Oman, and Pakistan. While operations for many airlines remain unaffected so far, vigilance is key as conditions can change rapidly. In a notable incident, an IndiGo flight from Kannur to Abu Dhabi had to be diverted to Ahmedabad due to the eruption.
As the situation evolves, travelers are encouraged to stay informed about their flight statuses and any further developments related to the volcanic ash. The response from regulatory bodies and airlines reflects a coordinated effort to manage the disruptions caused by this natural event effectively.