Ash Cloud from Ethiopia’s Hayli Gubbi Volcano Disrupts Air Travel

Eruption Details

The Hayli Gubbi volcano in Ethiopia has made headlines after erupting for the first time in nearly 10,000 years. The unexpected activity produced a significant ash cloud that is now making its way across regions, impacting air travel in India and potentially heading toward China. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) provided updates on the situation, confirming that the ash cloud poses a risk to flights.

Impact on Flights

Following the eruption, flight operations faced considerable disruptions. On Monday, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) in India issued a precautionary advisory to airlines and airports, warning them about the implications of the volcanic ash.

By Tuesday, the situation escalated, leading to at least seven international flight cancellations at the Delhi airport. Nearly twelve other international flights experienced delays, affecting travelers’ plans both arriving in and departing from India.

Airline Responses

Air India, in particular, felt the impacts of the eruption the hardest. The airline was compelled to cancel 13 flights since Monday. This decision was made necessary when seven of its aircraft had to undergo precautionary checks after traversing areas affected by the ash clouds. Fortunately, these planes were cleared for operations by Tuesday, allowing them to resume normal flight schedules.

Monitoring the Situation

Despite the disruptions, the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) assured the public that there was no immediate cause for concern. The ministry reported that the situation is being monitored closely to ensure passenger safety. Authorities are working diligently to assess the ongoing developments and manage air traffic effectively.

Historical Context

This eruption marks a rare event in the geological history of the Hayli Gubbi volcano, located in Ethiopia’s Erta Ale Range. The last recorded eruption occurred approximately 10,000 to 12,000 years ago. The sudden resurgence of volcanic activity has led to towering ash clouds that first swept toward the Red Sea, affecting regions such as Oman and Yemen. Recent observations indicate that volcanic ash has also settled over parts of the Arabian Peninsula.

The situation is still developing, and authorities continue to gather data regarding the ash cloud’s drift and potential impacts on air travel and surrounding areas. The Hayli Gubbi eruption serves as a reminder of the dynamic nature of geological processes and their far-reaching consequences.

Conclusion

As the ash cloud from the Hayli Gubbi volcano travels further east, authorities in India and beyond remain vigilant. Travel customers are advised to check their flight status regularly and remain informed about the situation as it evolves.