Ethiopia Volcano Eruption Disrupts Flights Across South Asia: Details
Ethiopia’s Hayli Gubbi volcano erupted spectacularly on November 23, 2025, marking its first significant activity in nearly 12,000 years. The eruption ejected massive ash columns 10-15 kilometers skyward, visible from space and documented across social media platforms. Located in Ethiopia’s Afar Region, the volcano’s dramatic awakening has sent shockwaves through the aviation industry across South Asia.
According to data from the Volcanic Ash Advisory Centers (VAAC), the ash cloud traveled eastward over the Arabian Peninsula, first impacting Yemen and Oman before reaching northern Pakistan and India. By November 24, 2025, the ash had arrived in India’s Delhi-NCR region and spread across Gujarat, Rajasthan, Punjab, and Haryana. The India Meteorological Department projected the ash cloud would exit Indian airspace by November 25, continuing its trajectory toward Nepal, Bhutan, and central China.
The eruption triggered immediate aviation safety concerns across the region. India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) issued critical guidance on November 24, advising airlines to avoid affected airspace and directing airports to inspect runways for ash contamination. This precautionary stance reflects the severe risks volcanic ash poses to aircraft engines and avionics systems.
Major Indian carriers responded swiftly to regulatory guidance. Air India cancelled 11 flights on November 24-25, conducting precautionary aircraft inspections for planes that traversed eruption-affected zones. The airline coordinated with passengers regarding rescheduling and accommodations. IndiGo confirmed close coordination with international aviation bodies while maintaining operational readiness with enhanced safety protocols. SpiceJet warned passengers on Arabian Peninsula routes, particularly those traveling to Dubai, to verify flight status. Akasa Air aligned operations with international safety advisories and implemented necessary precautions.
IndiGo’s statement emphasized preparedness: “We are fully prepared with all necessary precautions to ensure safe and reliable operations. We will continue to monitor developments round the clock.”
As the ash cloud progresses toward additional regions, Chinese carriers including China Eastern Airlines, China Southern Airlines, and Hainan Airlines maintain normal operations pending further developments. The aviation industry’s coordinated response demonstrates well-established protocols for natural disaster-related disruptions, balancing passenger safety with operational continuity.
Source ID: SRCE-2025-1764102540379-935