Anak Krakatau Erupts Again: Volcanic Ash Disrupts Flights Across Indonesia

A major eruption of Indonesia’s Anak Krakatau volcano has disrupted air travel across the country, forcing the suspension of operations at eight airports and affecting around 170,000 passengers.

Anak Krakatau Erupts Again

The volcano, located in the Sunda Strait between Java and Sumatra, erupted on Sunday, sending volcanic ash high into the atmosphere. One ash cloud reached approximately 50,000 feet (15,200 metres), creating serious risks for aircraft operating in the affected airspace.

Flights Cancelled Across Indonesia

Jakarta’s Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, Indonesia’s main international gateway, was among the airports affected. Authorities reported that the disruption had resulted in 1,558 cancelled flights across eight airports, with hundreds of thousands of passengers facing delays and cancellations.

Several major airlines, including Singapore Airlines, Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia and Lion Air, cancelled or disrupted services because of the volcanic ash. International routes were also affected, including flights involving Singapore, Doha, Sydney and Kuala Lumpur.

Schools and Fishing Activities Affected

The impact has extended beyond aviation. Volcanic ash has affected communities in parts of western Indonesia, with some schools cancelling activities and fishermen suspending trips. Authorities have advised residents to wear masks and eye protection and reduce outdoor activities where ash is present.

Despite the eruption, no casualties have been reported and no evacuation order has been issued. Authorities continue to closely monitor Anak Krakatau and have warned people to stay at least three kilometres from its crater.

Authorities Monitor the Situation

Indonesia's authorities are coordinating with airlines, airports and meteorological agencies as they assess when flights can safely resume. Officials have also considered weather-modification measures to encourage rainfall that could help clear volcanic ash from affected areas.

The eruption is particularly significant because Anak Krakatau has a history of dangerous volcanic activity. In 2018, an eruption and subsequent collapse triggered a tsunami that killed more than 400 people.

Elite Daily News Live will continue monitoring the volcanic activity in Indonesia and provide updates on flight disruptions, public safety and developments across the region.