A volcanic eruption in Ethiopia has dispatched ash clouds across thousands of kilometers, reaching Delhi and causing significant disruptions to flight operations in India. The event, which began on Sunday, has led to multiple flight cancellations and delays as aviation authorities issue safety advisories to mitigate risks.
The Hayli Gubbi volcano in Ethiopia, dormant for approximately 12,000 years, erupted violently, propelling an ash column high into the atmosphere. This rare geological event sent the ash plume eastward over the Red Sea and through countries like Oman and Yemen before arriving in northern India. The India Meteorological Department confirmed the ash’s presence at altitudes between 8.5 and 15 kilometers, posing a direct threat to aviation safety and satellite functions.
In response, Indian airlines including Air India, IndiGo, and Akasa Air have cancelled several flights, with Air India alone scrapping 11 services. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation has instructed airlines to avoid affected areas and immediately report any ash encounters, such as engine performance anomalies or cabin issues. Passengers have been advised to check flight statuses before heading to airports, particularly in regions like Delhi, Maharashtra, and Gujarat, where operations were impacted.
Volcanic ash consists of fine, abrasive particles that can damage aircraft engines, reduce visibility, and contaminate airfields. While the current level of contamination is unclear due to the sudden nature of the eruption, experts emphasize the hazards it poses to flight safety. The Toulouse Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre noted that the eruption has ceased, but the ash cloud continues to drift towards China, with ongoing monitoring to assess its density and trajectory.
This incident recalls the 2010 Eyjafjallajökull eruption in Iceland, which caused widespread air travel chaos across Europe. However, authorities are better prepared now, with improved monitoring and response protocols. The IMD estimates that the ash over Delhi should disperse by Tuesday evening, minimizing prolonged disruptions, and it is unlikely to affect ground-level air quality, which remains a separate concern in the region.
The ash’s arrival highlights the global interconnectedness of natural events and their impact on modern infrastructure. While immediate disruptions are expected to be short-lived, the event underscores the need for robust volcanic ash monitoring systems in aviation to prevent future crises. Airlines are coordinating with international bodies to manage operations and ensure passenger safety during this period.
Looking ahead, authorities continue to track the ash cloud’s movement, ready to implement further measures if conditions deteriorate. The swift response from regulators and airlines aims to balance safety with the gradual resumption of normal flight operations, emphasizing preparedness in the face of unpredictable natural phenomena.
