Indonesia’s Soekarno-Hatta International Airport suspended flight operations on Sunday after ash from an eruption of the Anak Krakatoa volcano was detected in the surrounding airspace, disrupting travel for thousands of passengers.
The active volcano, located in the Sunda Strait between the islands of Java and Sumatra, began erupting on Saturday. Indonesia’s geology agency reported a lava fountain, along with booming sounds and tremors that were felt and heard by residents in several areas.
Airport operations were suspended at about 1:30 a.m. local time on Sunday after volcanic ash was detected near the airport. Authorities later extended the closure after further testing confirmed the presence of ash in the area.
Indonesia’s Transport Ministry said the latest paper test produced positive results for volcanic ash around Soekarno-Hatta International Airport. The closure was extended until 9:30 a.m. local time, according to the ministry.
The disruption affected more than 22,000 passengers and 209 flights, officials said. International services, particularly flights operating to and from Singapore, were among those affected.
Flights serving Doha, Sydney and Kuala Lumpur were also disrupted. Local airport authorities reported that at least 16 domestic flights to Bali were cancelled as a result of the eruption and the resulting ash threat.
Volcanic ash can pose serious risks to aircraft because particles can enter jet engines and damage critical components. Airlines and aviation authorities therefore monitor volcanic activity closely and may suspend flights when ash clouds threaten flight paths or airports.
Anak Krakatoa, meaning “Child of Krakatoa”, emerged after the catastrophic 1883 eruption of Krakatoa, one of the most powerful volcanic eruptions recorded in history. The volcano has remained active and has experienced repeated eruptions in recent years.
The latest activity has prompted authorities to closely monitor the volcano and surrounding airspace. Residents in areas near the Sunda Strait have also reported the sounds and tremors associated with the eruption.
The disruption at Soekarno-Hatta, one of Indonesia’s busiest airports, highlights the wider impact volcanic activity can have on air travel. Even when an eruption occurs some distance from an airport, airborne ash can force airlines to cancel or reroute services.
Airlines were expected to continue assessing conditions as authorities monitored the movement and concentration of volcanic ash.
Passengers affected by the cancellations and delays have been advised to check with their airlines for updated schedules and alternative arrangements. The duration of any further disruption will depend on volcanic activity and the presence of ash in areas used by aircraft.
Authorities continue to monitor Anak Krakatoa as the volcano remains active.
