Mumbai/New Delhi, Nov 25: Indian carriers are on heightened alert after Ethiopia’s Hayli Gubbi volcano erupted on Sunday, sending ash clouds toward parts of the country and surrounding regions. The eruption, the first from the nearly 10,000-year-dormant volcano, began at around 8:30 am UTC, according to the Toulouse Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC).
The ash plume, which initially spread across the Red Sea toward Oman and Yemen, is now moving toward northern India. Airlines and aviation authorities are closely tracking the plume’s path to safeguard passenger flights.
IndiGo stated on X, “Following the recent eruption of the #HayliGubbi volcano in #Ethiopia, ash clouds are reported to be drifting towards parts of western India. Your safety remains our highest priority. We are fully prepared with all necessary precautions to ensure safe and reliable operations.” The airline added that 6E teams are available to assist passengers and updates will be provided continuously.
Air India emphasised similar reassurances: “Ash clouds have been observed over certain geographical regions. We 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 airline confirmed that precautionary measures are in place to protect passengers, crew, and aircraft.
Akasa Air also confirmed monitoring the situation and said, “Our teams will continue to assess the volcanic activity in compliance with international aviation advisories and safety protocols. Passenger safety and well-being are our utmost priority.”
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport issued an advisory for passengers, 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.”
Though the eruption has ceased, the ash cloud from Hayli Gubbi volcano in Ethiopia’s Erta Ale Range, dormant for nearly 10,000 years, continues to be tracked by airlines and meteorological agencies to prevent any disruption in flight operations.
