Ash From Volcano Reaches Key Flight Paths Into India
Air India and Akasa Air dropped several international flights after the Hayli Gubbi volcano in Ethiopia erupted, sending a thick plume of ash across heavily used routes connecting the Gulf and the Indian subcontinent. Aviation authorities circulated warnings urging airlines to keep tracking ash concentrations, noting that volcanic debris in the upper atmosphere can jeopardize aircraft systems.
Carriers Pause Routes and Conduct Detailed Safety Reviews
Air India said a handful of aircraft were withdrawn from rotation so engineers could perform comprehensive checks to rule out any ash-related contamination. Akasa Air suspended select Middle Eastern services as updated ash-movement models indicated potential exposure risks at certain cruising altitudes. Both carriers advised passengers to stay updated on revised timetables, cautioning that additional disruptions may arise if the plume shifts further.
Meteorologists Watch Plume Drift Toward Arabian and South Asian Skies
Weather agencies and international volcanic ash monitors observed the cloud rising high above the Horn of Africa before stretching toward the Red Sea and the Arabian Peninsula. Forecasts suggested that portions of South Asian airspace might experience intermittent effects depending on wind patterns and altitude levels. Regulators said they would continue adjusting operational guidance as fresh data emerges, underscoring that safety considerations remain paramount for all flight operations.
