Ethiopian ash cloud races towards India; Akasa Air, IndiGo, KLM sound safety alarms

Akasa Air, IndiGo and KLM cancelled select flights on Monday as a precautionary measure linked to the drifting plumes

Volcanic ash from Ethiopia's Hayli Gubbi volcano is moving toward India and is expected to reach parts of western and northern regions soon, ANI reported, citing IndiaMetSky Weather. The development has prompted airlines and airport authorities to issue precautionary advisories for passengers.

Several carriers operating in India have assured travellers that safety protocols are being followed as the ash cloud gradually approaches Indian airspace. Akasa Air, IndiGo and KLM cancelled select flights on Monday as a precautionary measure linked to the drifting plumes.

Akasa Air said it is tracking the situation closely in line with global aviation guidance.

"#TravelUpdate We are closely monitoring the volcanic activity in Ethiopia and its potential impact on flight operations in nearby regions. Our teams will continue to assess the situation in compliance with international aviation advisories and safety protocols and take necessary actions as required. At Akasa Air, passenger safety and well-being is our utmost priority," Akasa said on X.

IndiGo also stated that its teams are monitoring developments with international aviation bodies and are prepared to implement all required safety measures.

"Following the recent eruption of the #HayliGubbi volcano in #Ethiopia, ash clouds are reported to be drifting towards parts of western India. We understand that such news may cause concern, and we want to reassure you that your safety remains our highest priority.

Our teams are closely tracking the situation in coordination with international aviation bodies. We are fully prepared with all necessary precautions to ensure safe and reliable operations.

Our 6E teams are available across all touchpoints to support you with any assistance you may need. We will continue to monitor the developments round the clock and keep you informed of any updates to help minimise inconvenience (if any).

Thank you for your patience and understanding. Stay safe, and travel with confidence," IndiGo said on X.

Air India noted there has been "no major impact" on its flights so far, but the airline is maintaining constant contact with crew members and global aviation authorities.

"#TravelAdvisory Following the volcanic eruption in Ethiopia, ash clouds have been observed over certain geographical regions. We are closely monitoring the situation and remain in constant touch with our operating crew. There is no major impact on Air India flights at this time. We will take all necessary steps under our precautionary plans to ensure the safety of our passengers, crew and aircraft, which remains our top priority.

Our ground teams across the network will continue to support passengers and keep them updated on their flights," Air India posted on X.

Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport also issued a passenger advisory, noting that volcanic activity in Ethiopia has affected parts of West Asian airspace and could influence some international routes.

The Toulouse Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC) reported that the eruption began around 8:30 am UTC on Sunday and has since subsided, though the ash cloud continues to move toward northern India. Aviation authorities are monitoring the plume's altitude and movement to maintain safe flight operations.

The volcano, located in Ethiopia's Afar region, erupted for the first time in nearly 12,000 years, sending ash up to 14 km into the atmosphere, Reuters reported, citing the Toulouse VAAC. Situated roughly 800 km northeast of Addis Ababa near the Eritrean border, Hayli Gubbi lies within the tectonically active Rift Valley.

Ash clouds from the eruption travelled across Yemen, Oman, India and northern Pakistan, according to the report. The Smithsonian Institution's Global Volcanism Program told Reuters that the volcano has no recorded eruptions in the Holocene, underscoring the unusual nature of the event.