The eruption of Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki, located in East Flores, Nusa Tenggara Timur, has been disrupting air travel across Indonesia and beyond since early November, affecting Bali’s I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport and routes to Australia. At least 80 flights have been canceled or delayed, with ongoing repercussions for travelers in the region.
Flights to/from Australia Hit Hard
Air travel between Bali and major Australian cities like Sydney and Melbourne has been particularly impacted. Airlines have grounded flights or rescheduled departures, while some carriers are offering affected passengers refunds or alternative booking options.
While volcanic ash has not directly entered Bali’s airspace, aviation authorities are taking precautionary measures to ensure safety. Regular assessments are being conducted, and some flights have been rerouted or postponed in response to the evolving situation.
Local Communities in East Flores Struggling
The eruption, which began on November 4, has severely impacted communities across East Flores. Local airports, including those in Maumere and Ende, have faced temporary closures due to the ash cloud, which has not only reduced visibility but also posed significant safety risks for air traffic.
The eruption has claimed at least ten lives, with authorities reporting widespread damage to homes, schools, and other structures in the surrounding areas. Lava flows and falling ash have affected local infrastructure, while thousands of residents have been displaced, seeking shelter in temporary accommodations.
As ash clouds reach altitudes of up to 10,000 feet, local officials continue to coordinate evacuation efforts. In addition to the physical damage, the local economy has been heavily impacted, with many businesses closed or operating at reduced capacity.
The Hazards of Volcanic Ash on Air Travel
Volcanic ash, even if it appears to be a distant hazard, can severely affect aircraft operations. The primary concern is that the fine particles of volcanic ash can clog and damage engine components, leading to potentially catastrophic engine failure.
As noted by the U.S. Geological Survey, ash clouds can even cause jets to lose engine power or completely fail, as the ash particles can erode engine turbines and other critical parts of the aircraft.
Moreover, volcanic ash can significantly impair visibility for pilots, creating dangerous flight conditions. According to experts, the ash clouds can obscure the view, making it hard for pilots to navigate and increasing the likelihood of accidents.
The ongoing eruption of Lewotobi Laki-Laki remains a major concern for both aviation and local communities, with authorities continuing to monitor the situation closely.
