The ongoing eruptions of the Lewotobi Laki-Laki volcano on the Indonesian island of Flores are disrupting international air travel across Southeast Asia.
Since Tuesday, several airlines including Jetstar, Virgin Australia, AirAsia and Tigerair have canceled dozens of flights from Bali to destinations including Australia, Singapore and Malaysia due to safety concerns caused by ash clouds.
“Due to the volcanic ash caused by Mount Lewotobi in Indonesia, it is currently not safe to fly to and from Bali,” Australian airline Jetstar said on Wednesday, adding that it is closely monitoring the situation and will resume flights as soon as conditions improve.
Meanwhile, a Qantas flight bound for Australia had to turn back mid-flight due to the ash, according to a report from Sky News.
Ahmad Syaugi Shahab, director general of Bali Airport, reported that 34 flights were disrupted on Tuesday alone.
The Lewotobi Laki-Laki volcano, located on the island of Flores in the province of East Nusa Tenggara, just 500 kilometers from Bali, has been active again since the end of 2023. In recent months, it has repeatedly emitted hot gases and ash into the atmosphere.
During its most intense eruption 10 days ago, the volcano suddenly threw ash and glowing rocks miles into the air.
The rocks, which fell like hot hail on seven surrounding villages, caused serious damage and started fires. At least nine people were killed. Thousands of others were forced to flee and took refuge in evacuation centers.
The world’s largest archipelago nation, Indonesia, lies on the so-called Pacific Ring of Fire, the most geologically active zone on Earth.
