Volcanic Ash Reaches Critical International Flight Corridors
Air India and Akasa Air have cancelled several international services after the Hayli Gubbi volcano in Ethiopia erupted, sending ash plumes into key air routes connecting the Middle East with India. Aviation authorities issued safety alerts urging airlines to monitor ash concentrations, emphasizing that airborne volcanic particles can seriously affect aircraft engines and navigational instruments.
Airlines Conduct Safety Checks and Adjust Flight Plans
Air India stated that multiple aircraft were temporarily grounded for inspections to verify that no ash-related damage occurred. Akasa Air halted operations on selected Gulf routes due to updated forecasts indicating ash intrusion into the region’s high-altitude flight paths. Both carriers advised passengers to check for revised schedules and rebooking options, noting that additional changes may be necessary as the plume moves.
Experts Track Ash Movement Toward South Asia
Meteorologists and international volcanic ash monitoring centers reported that the plume rose to considerable altitudes and drifted eastward from Ethiopia across the Red Sea toward the Arabian Peninsula. Forecasts suggested intermittent impacts on South Asian airspace depending on wind patterns and plume density. Regulators stressed that airline operations would continue to adapt to new data, reaffirming that passenger safety is the top priority.
