Volcanic Ash Plume Affects Key International Airspace
Air India and Akasa Air have cancelled multiple international flights following the eruption of Ethiopia’s Hayli Gubbi volcano. The event released ash into busy air corridors connecting the Middle East with India, prompting aviation authorities to issue alerts warning that volcanic particles at cruising altitudes can pose serious risks to aircraft engines and instruments.
Airlines Pause Services and Conduct Safety Checks
Air India confirmed that several of its aircraft were temporarily removed from service to undergo detailed inspections for potential ash exposure. Akasa Air suspended operations on select Gulf-bound routes as meteorological updates indicated ash drifting into portions of the region’s high-altitude flight paths. Passengers were advised to monitor updated schedules and rebooking procedures, with further changes possible depending on the plume’s movement.
Meteorological Agencies Track Plume Toward South Asia
Forecasting centers and international ash monitoring agencies reported that the volcanic cloud reached high altitudes and moved eastward over the Red Sea toward the Arabian Peninsula. Projections suggested intermittent effects on parts of South Asian airspace depending on wind patterns and altitude. Regulators emphasized that flight operations would continue to adapt as new data becomes available, underscoring that passenger safety remains the foremost priority.
