Volcanic Eruption Causes Major Air Travel Disruptions in Indonesia
A massive ash plume, reaching an altitude of 18 kilometers (11 miles), erupted from Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki in Indonesia, causing significant disruptions to air travel. The event forced the cancellation of numerous flights from Bali's international airport, according to local authorities. This incident marks another disruption in the region, following similar cancellations just weeks prior due to the same volcano's activity.
The eruption occurred at 11:05 a.m. (0305 GMT) on Monday, as reported by the volcanology agency. The agency stated that the ash column reached approximately 18,000 meters above the summit, creating a visible cloud that affected nearby areas. The impact was felt across several airlines operating routes to and from Bali, including Labuan Bajo on Flores, Australia, Singapore, and South Korea.
Ahmad Syaugi Shahab, the general manager of Bali's international airport, confirmed that 24 flights were canceled due to the eruption. Airlines such as Virgin Australia, Jetstar Airways, and AirAsia Indonesia have been affected, with some flights delayed or canceled entirely. Despite these disruptions, the airport manager noted that the spread of volcanic ash had not yet impacted the airspace over Bali.
Jetstar Airways, an Australian carrier, mentioned that several flights were canceled "due to volcanic ash caused by an eruption of Mount Lewotobi." The situation has raised concerns about potential hazards, particularly if heavy rainfall occurs. The volcanology agency warned of the risk of lahar floods—mud or debris flows made up of volcanic materials—which could pose a threat to communities near rivers.
As of now, there are no immediate reports of damage or casualties. However, the activity level at the volcano remains high, characterized by explosive eruptions and continuous tremors, according to Muhammad Wafid, head of the geology agency. He urged residents to maintain a distance of at least six kilometers (3.7 miles) from the volcano and to wear face masks to protect against ash inhalation.
This is not the first time that Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki has caused disruptions. In the previous month, dozens of flights to and from Bali were canceled after the volcano erupted. Ashfall affected several communities around the volcano and led to the evacuation of at least one village. Earlier in November, the volcano erupted multiple times, resulting in nine fatalities and forcing thousands to evacuate, along with the cancellation of many international flights to Bali.
Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki, known as "man" in Indonesian, stands at 1,584 meters (5,197 feet). It is paired with the calmer but taller volcano named Perempuan, meaning "woman" in Indonesian, which reaches 1,703 meters. The region is part of Indonesia, a nation situated on the Pacific "Ring of Fire," experiencing frequent seismic and volcanic activity due to its geographical location.
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