The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) issued a crucial advisory on Monday as volcanic ash from Ethiopia's recently erupted Hayli Gubbi volcano began drifting toward western and northern regions of India, threatening widespread disruption to airline operations across multiple states.
Flight Cancellations and Route Modifications
Multiple airlines have already begun cancelling and diverting flights to avoid the dangerous plume. IndiGo, Akasa Air, and KLM have modified their schedules, with routes to the Middle East and Europe being particularly affected.
Akasa Air confirmed the cancellations, stating: "Following recent volcanic activity in Ethiopia and the resulting ash plume in the surrounding airspace, our flights to and from Jeddah, Kuwait, and Abu Dhabi scheduled for 24th and 25th November 2025 have been cancelled."
Ash Cloud Trajectory and Timing
According to weather monitoring service IndiaMetSky, the ash cloud entered Gujarat on Monday evening and was expected to move toward Rajasthan, northwest Maharashtra, Delhi, Haryana, and Punjab by 10 pm. The service warned that the Himalayas and other regions would be impacted later.
The plume is traveling at remarkable speeds of 100–120 km/h at altitudes between 15,000 and 45,000 feet, carrying a dangerous mixture of volcanic ash, sulphur dioxide, and microscopic glass and rock particles that pose significant risks to aircraft engines.
DGCA Safety Measures and Airport Precautions
The aviation regulator has instructed airlines to avoid ash-affected airspace, revise flight planning, and immediately report any suspected ash encounter, including engine anomalies or cabin smoke and odour.
Airports have been directed to remain vigilant and inspect runways, taxiways, and aprons for ash contamination. Operations must be restricted until cleaning is completed if any ash is detected on surfaces.
Mumbai airport has already warned passengers: "A volcanic eruption in Ethiopia has affected airspace over parts of West Asia, which may impact some international routes."
Authorities are closely monitoring the plume's movement toward Delhi and Jaipur, with early signs detected near Jamnagar around 5.30 pm. The explosive eruption began around 8:30 am UTC (1.30 pm IST) on Sunday, marking the first activity from the nearly 10,000-year-dormant volcano.
As the situation continues to develop, travelers are advised to check with their airlines for the latest updates on flight schedules and potential disruptions to air travel across northern India.
