Multiple airlines have suspended operations to and from Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport due to a looming threat from volcanic ash. The ash cloud, originating from Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki, poses a significant hazard to aircraft safety.
The disruptions began Wednesday after the volcano erupted over the weekend, spewing a massive ash column into the atmosphere. Qantas, Jetstar, and Virgin Australia have all canceled flights, while Cathay Pacific, IndiGo, and AirAsia have followed suit.
Virgin Australia emphasized the paramount importance of passenger safety, stating that its meteorological team is actively tracking the situation. Singapore Airlines and Scoot have also canceled some flights, although the airport website indicates that some services have continued as scheduled.
Airport general manager Ahmad Syaugi Shahab reported that 22 international and 12 domestic flights were affected on Tuesday. While details regarding Wednesday’s operations remain limited, the ash cloud continues to pose a threat.
The eruption has also impacted activities in Labuan Bajo, a town approximately 600km from the volcano. A jazz festival has been postponed to next year due to safety concerns.
Indonesia’s location within the Pacific Ring of Fire, a region characterized by intense seismic activity, makes it susceptible to volcanic eruptions. Previous eruptions, such as that of Mount Merapi in 2020, have led to airport closures and flight cancellations.
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