Volcanic Ash Moves Into Major Flight Routes
Air India and Akasa Air have suspended multiple international flights after the Hayli Gubbi volcano in Ethiopia erupted, sending ash plumes into heavily trafficked air corridors connecting the Middle East and India. Aviation authorities issued warnings to airlines, highlighting that airborne volcanic particles can damage engines and aircraft systems, prompting precautionary cancellations.
Airlines Temporarily Ground Jets and Revise Operations
Air India confirmed that several aircraft were taken out of service for thorough inspections to ensure they were not affected by ash. Akasa Air halted flights on select Gulf destinations as updated meteorological data showed ash drifting into sections of the region’s upper flight levels. Both airlines urged passengers to monitor revised schedules, noting that additional service adjustments could be necessary if conditions change.
Meteorologists Track Plume’s Path Toward South Asian Airspace
Weather agencies and global volcanic ash monitoring centers reported that the plume rose to high altitudes and moved eastward across the Red Sea toward the Arabian Peninsula. Forecasts indicated possible intermittent impacts on segments of South Asian airspace depending on wind shifts and altitude levels. Regulators said operational guidance would remain flexible as new information emerges, emphasizing that safety remains the highest priority for all flight operations.
