Ethiopian Volcano Ash Cloud Drifts Toward India: Airlines Issue Safety Advisories and Monitor Flight Operations

The Toulouse VAAC has reported that while the eruption has ceased, a substantial ash plume is now moving toward northern India.

New Delhi:

Following the eruption of Ethiopia's Hayli Gubbi volcano, major Indian carriers IndiGo, Air India, and Akasa Air have issued statements reassuring passengers about their commitment to safety as ash clouds drift toward western India.

IndiGo released a statement via social media platform X, saying: "Following the recent eruption of the Hayli Gubbi 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."

The airline further stated: "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 around the clock and keep you informed of any updates to help minimise inconvenience (if any)."

Air India also addressed the situation, confirming they 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." The carrier emphasized that they "will take all necessary steps under our precautionary plans to ensure the safety of our passengers, crew and aircraft, which remains our top priority."

Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport issued an advisory to travelers, noting that "A volcanic eruption in Ethiopia has affected airspace over parts of West Asia, which may impact some international routes. Passengers are advised to connect with their respective airlines to check the status of their flights before leaving for the airport."

Akasa Air joined other carriers in issuing a statement, confirming they are "closely monitoring the volcanic activity in Ethiopia and its potential impact on flight operations in nearby regions." The airline assured passengers that their "teams will continue to assess the situation in compliance with international aviation advisories and safety protocols and take necessary actions as required."

According to the Toulouse Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC), the explosive eruption began at approximately 8:30 am UTC on Sunday, marking the first activity from this volcano after nearly 10,000 years of dormancy. The eruption has now stopped, but authorities remain vigilant as a "large ash plume is moving toward northern India."

The Hayli Gubbi volcano, located in Ethiopia's Erta Ale Range, had its last eruption approximately 10,000 to 12,000 years ago. Sunday's unexpected activity sent massive ash clouds across the Red Sea toward Oman and Yemen before shifting eastward, according to reports from Al Arabiya.

In the aftermath of the eruption, volcanic ash has been detected over sections of the Arabian Peninsula. While airlines have issued cautionary notices for passengers flying through the Middle East, no specific advisories have yet been issued regarding the ash drift toward India.