TTU: Air travel in several parts of India faced interruptions after a volcanic ash cloud from Ethiopia drifted toward northern regions. Airlines made cancellations. Some flights were diverted. The aviation regulator also issued safety instructions.
Air Travel Disruption in India: Impact on Flights
A large number of passengers were affected. IndiGo cancelled at least six flights on both domestic and international routes. Akasa Air also suspended its services to Jeddah, Kuwait and Abu Dhabi for November 24 and 25.
The airline said the ash cloud from the Hayli Gubbi volcano in Ethiopia had moved toward western India. It issued a public statement saying it was monitoring the situation. It also said passenger safety was its top concern.
Other airlines changed flight paths. Some international carriers altered their routes to avoid flying through the ash cloud.
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines cancelled its Amsterdam–Delhi flight (KL 871) and the return service from Delhi (KL 872). The airline said the ash cloud made these operations unsafe. This added to the ongoing Air Travel Disruption in India.
Air Travel Disruption in India: DGCA Advisory and Alerts
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) issued an ASHTAM alert. It is a specialised warning used when volcanic ash affects airspace.
The regulator instructed all airlines to avoid the affected areas. It also told them to follow every safety step linked to volcanic ash operations.
The DGCA directed pilots and airlines to report any suspected ash-related issues immediately. This includes reporting engine trouble, unusual smells, or any smoke inside the aircraft cabin.
Airports were also told to inspect runways, taxiways and parking areas if ash was seen on the ground.
Why the Ash Cloud Reached India
The volcanic ash originated from Ethiopia’s Hayli Gubbi volcano. The volcano erupted on Sunday. It was inactive for almost 12,000 years before this event.
After the eruption, a thick plume travelled across the Red Sea. It then moved toward Yemen and Oman. Later, it spread over the northern Arabian Sea.
Weather agencies reported that dense parts of the ash cloud are now passing over Delhi, Haryana and western Uttar Pradesh. Experts said the ash could affect air quality, but the risk remains low. This is because the plume is still at a higher altitude.
International Flight Routes Also Affected
Due to restrictions in the affected areas, many international airlines began using routes over Pakistani airspace.
Indian airlines, however, cannot use these paths. This led to more cancellations and delays.
Airline operators have been told to check satellite images and weather updates regularly. They must also coordinate with airport authorities for any sudden changes.
The situation continues to evolve. Aviation authorities and airlines are monitoring the ash cloud movement closely. Passengers have been advised to check their flight status before travelling.
FAQs
1. What should passengers do if their flight is cancelled?
Passengers should contact the airline through the official website, customer care number or mobile app. Most airlines offer a free date change or full refund during such disruptions.
2. Does volcanic ash damage aircraft?
Yes. Volcanic ash can enter engines, affect sensors, scratch windshields and reduce visibility. This is why airlines avoid flying through ash clouds.
3. How long can volcanic ash affect flight operations?
It varies. It depends on wind direction, ash density and weather conditions. In some cases, disruptions last a few hours. In others, they may continue for several days.
4. Are passengers entitled to compensation?
Compensation rules depend on each airline’s policy. However, most disruptions caused by natural events fall under “uncontrollable situations,” so compensation is not guaranteed.
5. Can ash clouds affect people on the ground?
If ash reaches lower altitudes, it can impact visibility and air quality. People with breathing problems may experience discomfort. But in this case, the ash is still high in the sky.
6. How do pilots detect volcanic ash?
Pilots use weather radar, satellite reports, NOTAMs, ASHTAM alerts and updates from air traffic control to avoid ash clouds.
