An Air India flight en route to Bali, Indonesia, was forced to return to Delhi today after reports of a volcanic eruption near the destination airport prompted safety concerns. Air India flight AI2145, which departed from Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport, safely landed back in the Indian capital, and all passengers were disembarked without incident.
The disruption was caused by the eruption of Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki in the eastern part of Indonesia, which reportedly spewed a column of ash up to 10 kilometers into the sky. Volcanic ash poses a significant hazard to aviation as it can damage aircraft engines, reduce visibility, and affect flight control systems. Airlines and air traffic control prioritize safety in such situations, often leading to flight diversions or cancellations.
An Air India spokesperson confirmed the decision to return to Delhi was made “in the interest of safety.” The airline has expressed regret for the inconvenience caused to its passengers and has taken immediate steps to mitigate their difficulties. Affected passengers have been offered hotel accommodation, full refunds on cancellations, or complimentary rescheduling of their flights, providing them with flexibility in light of the unforeseen circumstances.
This incident is not isolated, as volcanic activity in Indonesia, situated on the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” frequently impacts air travel in the region. Other international carriers, including Jetstar, Virgin Australia, Air New Zealand, Singapore’s Tigerair, and China’s Juneyao Airlines, have also reported flight disruptions and cancellations to and from Bali due to the ongoing volcanic activity.
Authorities are closely monitoring the situation, and the duration of flight disruptions will depend on the intensity and trajectory of the volcanic ash cloud. Passengers intending to travel to Bali in the coming days are advised to check with their respective airlines for the latest updates on flight status. The safety of passengers and crew remains the paramount concern for airlines operating in regions prone to such natural phenomena.