Ethiopian Volcanic Ash Cloud Over Delhi: Impact on Aviation and Air Quality Explained

Nov 25, 2025 01:04 pm CST

A high-altitude volcanic ash cloud from Ethiopia's Hayli Gubbi volcano has reached Delhi, disrupting flight operations across India. The plume, traveling at speeds up to 120 km/hour, contains sulphur dioxide and fine ash particles but remains at 25,000-45,000 feet, minimizing impact on Delhi's ground-level air quality. Aviation authorities have issued warnings, leading to flight adjustments rather than complete shutdowns as the cloud moves eastward toward China.