Volcanic plume disrupts Indian aviation; regulators mandate strict engine checks

A geological event occurring thousands of kilometers away in East Africa has triggered a wave of aviation disruptions across the Indian subcontinent. The Hayli Gubbi volcano in Ethiopia, which recently erupted after remaining dormant for nearly 10,000 years, has sent a massive plume of ash drifting toward South Asia. As a result, Ethiopian volcanic ash has become a major concern for airlines operating in Indian airspace, leading to multiple cancellations and delays.

Path of the Ash Cloud

According to the latest tracking data referenced by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and private weather forecasters, the ash cloud is moving rapidly at high altitudes. The plume initially entered Indian airspace via the western coast, crossing over Gujarat before drifting eastward.

By late evening, the cloud was projected to cover airspace over Rajasthan, northwest Maharashtra, Haryana, Punjab, and the National Capital Region (Delhi). While this sounds alarming for residents, the IMD has clarified that the ash is circulating at a height of over 10 kilometers. This altitude ensures that ground-level air quality in Indian cities remains largely unaffected, and the phenomenon is expected to pass within a few hours due to swift wind speeds.

Impact on Airlines and Passengers

Despite the safety on the ground, the sky remains a hazardous zone. Volcanic ash is notoriously dangerous for aircraft engines, as the abrasive particles can cause failure mid-flight. Consequently, major carriers have adjusted their schedules significantly.

• Air India reported cancelling 11 flights over a two-day period to facilitate precautionary engineering checks on aircraft that had traversed the affected zones.
• Akasa Air suspended operations to several Middle Eastern destinations, including Kuwait, Abu Dhabi, and Jeddah.
• IndiGo issued a statement confirming they are monitoring the situation around the clock and coordinating with global aviation bodies to ensure passenger safety.

Reports indicate that international flights departing from Delhi to hubs like Hong Kong, Frankfurt, and Dubai have also faced delays. For Odisha air travelers connecting through Delhi or Mumbai to international destinations, these disruptions could lead to missed connections or rescheduled itineraries.

Regulatory Action

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has moved quickly to mitigate risks. The regulator has instructed all airports to inspect runways and aprons for ash deposits. Furthermore, pilots and airlines have been ordered to avoid ash-contaminated airspace strictly and to report any engine anomalies or the smell of sulfur in the cabin immediately.

Image Source: The Daily Beast