Several flights have been cancelled as volcanic ash from Ethiopia drifts towards Indian airspace, prompting aviation authorities to take precautionary measures. The unexpected spread of ash clouds has raised safety concerns among airlines and regulators, disrupting air travel across multiple routes. NDTV brings you the latest on the situation, its impact on flights, and updates from officials managing the developing scenario.
Impact of Ethiopian Volcanic Ash on Indian Airspace and Flight Operations
Air traffic control authorities across India are grappling with significant disruptions as a dense cloud of volcanic ash from Ethiopia’s recent eruptions drifts eastward, encroaching on key Indian airspace corridors. Multiple domestic and international flights have been cancelled or rerouted to safeguard aircraft engines and ensure passenger safety. The volatile ash particles pose severe risks including engine flameouts, reduced visibility, and corrosive damage to aircraft surfaces, prompting aviation agencies to implement precautionary no-fly zones and tighter airspace monitoring until the ash cloud dissipates.
Flight operations affected include:
- Suspension of flights along the western and central air routes
- Delays reported at major airports such as Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru
- Enhanced real-time tracking by the Indian Meteorological Department and aviation authorities
| Airport | Flights Cancelled | Flights Delayed |
|---|---|---|
| Mumbai (BOM) | 12 | 8 |
| Delhi (DEL) | 9 | 11 |
| Bengaluru (BLR) | 7 | 5 |
- A volcanic ash cloud from recent eruptions in Ethiopia is affecting key Indian airspace corridors.
- Multiple domestic and international flights are being cancelled or rerouted to protect aircraft safety.
- Risks from ash particles include engine flameouts, reduced visibility, and corrosive damage.
- Authorities have implemented no-fly zones and heightened airspace monitoring until the ash cloud clears.
Flight operations affected:
- Suspension of flights along western and central air routes.
- Delays at Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru airports.
- Enhanced real-time tracking by Indian Meteorological Department and aviation agencies.
Flight disruptions at major airports:
| Airport | Flights Cancelled | Flights Delayed |
|---|---|---|
| Mumbai (BOM) | 12 | 8 |
| Delhi (DEL) | 9 | 11 |
| Bengaluru (BLR) | 7 | 5 |
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely to ensure passenger safety and minimize further disruptions.
Detailed Analysis of Flight Cancellations and Affected Routes
Flight disruptions have significantly impacted several key air routes between Ethiopia and India due to the widespread ash cloud resulting from recent volcanic activity in the Ethiopian Highlands. Major airlines including Ethiopian Airlines, Air India, and IndiGo have reported cancellations and diversions primarily affecting flights destined for Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru. The volatile airspace conditions have forced airport authorities at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport and various Indian metropolitan hubs to implement stringent operational restrictions, prioritizing passenger safety over scheduled departures and arrivals.
Below is an overview of the most affected routes and the extent of cancellations over the past 72 hours:
| Route | Number of Cancelled Flights | Average Delay (Hours) | Airlines Most Affected |
|---|---|---|---|
| Addis Ababa – Delhi | 15 | 6 | Ethiopian Airlines, Air India |
| Addis Ababa – Mumbai | 12 | 5.5 | Ethiopian Airlines, IndiGo |
| Addis Ababa – Bengaluru | 9 | 4.8 | Ethiopian Airlines, SpiceJet |
| Addis Ababa – Chennai | 5 | 4 | Ethiopian Airlines |
In addition to these cancellations, airlines are actively adjusting flight paths to avoid the most heavily affected airspaces. Passengers traveling along these corridors are advised to stay updated via official airline channels and prepare for potential last-minute schedule changes. Relief efforts and close monitoring continue as aviation authorities coordinate across continents to mitigate the impact and resume normal operations as soon as the volcanic ash clears.
- Flights affected: Over 40+ cancelled in the past three days
- Alternate arrangements: Buses and trains arranged for stranded passengers where applicable
- Safety measures: Regular airspace quality assessments ongoing by civil aviation authorities Here’s a summary of the current situation regarding flight disruptions between Ethiopia and India due to volcanic ash cloud:
– Significant flight cancellations and delays on major routes connecting Addis Ababa with Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Chennai.
– Over 40 flights cancelled in the last 72 hours, with average delays ranging from 4 to 6 hours.
– Airlines most affected include Ethiopian Airlines (across all routes), Air India (Delhi route), IndiGo (Mumbai route), and SpiceJet (Bengaluru route).
– Airport authorities have enforced strict operational restrictions prioritizing passenger safety.
– Airlines are rerouting flights to avoid affected airspaces.
– Alternate transport arrangements such as buses and trains have been made available to assist stranded passengers.
– Continuous airspace monitoring and coordination efforts are in place to restore normal operations once it is safe.Passengers are strongly advised to regularly check with their airlines for updates and prepare for possible last-minute changes.
Safety Measures and Recommendations for Travelers Amid Volcanic Ash Disruption
Travelers currently facing disruptions due to the volcanic ash clouds drifting from Ethiopia towards India are strongly advised to stay updated with the latest airline notifications and government advisories. For those planning to travel through affected regions, wearing protective masks and avoiding prolonged outdoor exposure can significantly reduce health risks associated with inhaling fine ash particles. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should take extra precautions or delay travel if possible. Airlines may impose sudden changes to schedules; hence, keeping all bookings flexible and ensuring adequate travel insurance coverage is wise.
When on the ground in affected areas, it’s crucial to follow simple safety protocols to minimize ash exposure. Avoid driving unless necessary, as ash can reduce visibility and damage vehicles. Keep windows and doors closed, and use air purifiers indoors when available. Below is a quick reference table highlighting key precautions recommended by health and aviation authorities:
Precaution Recommended Action Mask Usage Wear N95 or equivalent masks outdoors Travel Changes Check airline notices regularly Vehicle Safety Limit driving; ash damages engines and lowers visibility Health Avoid outdoor exertion, stay hydrated Indoor Safety Keep doors/windows shut; use air purifiers if possible Final Thoughts
As the volcanic ash from Ethiopia continues to drift towards India, authorities remain vigilant in monitoring the situation closely to ensure passenger safety. Airlines and airports are coordinating efforts to manage the disruptions, with travelers advised to stay updated on flight schedules and alternative arrangements. Officials have emphasized the importance of timely communication as the situation evolves, underscoring the ongoing impact of natural phenomena on global air travel.
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