Ethiopia Volcano Eruption: Flights Cancelled as Hayli Gubbi Ash Moves Toward Delhi-NCR: Check Airline Advisory

The aviation sector in India is on alert after the eruption of the Hayli Gubbi volcano in Ethiopia, which has triggered disruptions and forced airlines to cancel flights as ash and sulphur-dioxide plumes are now drifting toward India.

The Hayli Gubbi volcano, located in the Afar Region of Ethiopia's Erta Ale Range, erupted on 23 November, the first known eruption in approximately 10,000 to 12,000 years. The explosion caused ash plumes rising as high as 14 km, or a flight level of around 45,000 ft, into the atmosphere. After the eruption, a large ash cloud began drifting from northern Ethiopia, crossing the Red Sea toward Yemen and Oman before heading toward Western and Northern India.

Ash Cloud's Path & Speed Toward India

Meteorologists report the ash plume is moving at speeds of 100-120 km/h, travelling at high altitudes between 15,000 and 25,000 ft and, in some layers, up to 45,000 ft. According to reports by India Meteorological Department, the plume is expected to enter India through Gujarat and then sweep across Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Delhi-NCR, Haryana and Punjab before drifting toward the Himalayas. Despite its size, experts say the plume's altitude means surface-level air quality (AQI) won't be affected much; however, it may cause darker skies.

Impact on Air Travel & Airline Responses

In response to the ash plume, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) India issued a safety advisory asking airlines to avoid affected airspace and altitudes, revise routes, and report any ash encounters, including engine anomalies.

Several airlines have cancelled or rerouted flights. Carriers such as IndiGo and Air India issued travel advisories stating that passenger safety is top priority.

Indigo and its advisory said, "Our teams are closely tracking the situation in coordination with international aviation bodies. We are fully prepared with all necessary precautions to ensure safe and reliable operations.

Our 6E teams are available across all touchpoints to support you with any assistance you may need. We will continue to monitor the developments round the clock and keep you informed of any updates to help minimise inconvenience (if any)."

"We are closely monitoring the situation and remain in constant touch with our operating crew. There is no major impact on Air India flights at this time. We will take all necessary steps under our precautionary plans to ensure the safety of our passengers, crew and aircraft, which remains our top priority." said Air India in its latest advisory.

What Travellers and Residents Should Know

If you have travel plans in or through Western or Northern India (Gujarat, Rajasthan, Delhi-NCR, Punjab, Haryana), check regularly with your airline for flight status updates and possible rerouting.

Airlines have the option to adjust routes, altitudes and schedules to avoid flying through ash-affected corridors. The DGCA has asked airports to inspect runways and taxiways for ash contamination if needed.

Though surface AQI is not expected to degrade significantly, wearing a mask is advised.