Aviation authorities disrupted air travel across India after volcanic ash from an Ethiopian volcano threatened flight safety. Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad canceled multiple flights and warned passengers to check their travel plans.
The Hayli Gubbi volcano in Ethiopia erupted on Sunday after remaining dormant for nearly 12,000 years. Wind patterns carried the dangerous ash cloud toward northern and western India, forcing immediate action from aviation regulators.
Five flights connecting Hyderabad faced cancellation on Tuesday. Air India grounded flights AI 2204 from Dubai, AI 2466 to Delhi, and AI 2444/2445 on the Mumbai route. IndiGo also canceled flight 6E 1316 from Doha.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation issued an urgent ASHTAM alert – a specialized warning system for volcanic ash hazards. This directive instructed all airlines to avoid dangerous flight levels and implement strict safety protocols.
Airlines received orders to immediately report any ash encounters. Warning signs include engine problems, strange odors, or cabin smoke. Ground crews must inspect runways and aircraft parking areas for ash deposits.
International carriers began rerouting flights through Pakistani airspace to avoid the contaminated zones. However, Indian airlines cannot use these alternative routes due to restrictions, creating additional delays and cancellations.
Airport officials advised travelers to contact their airlines directly for updated flight information. The situation remains fluid as meteorologists track the ash cloud’s movement using satellite imagery and weather data.
The volcanic eruption marks a rare geological event, as the Ethiopian volcano had been inactive for millennia. Aviation experts continue monitoring atmospheric conditions to ensure passenger safety across the region.
