Indonesia volcanic eruptions disrupt international flights

The ongoing eruptions of the Lewotobi Laki-Laki volcano on Indonesia's Flores island are disrupting international air travel across South-East Asia.

Since Tuesday, several airlines, including Jetstar, Virgin Australia, AirAsia, and Tigerair, have cancelled dozens of flights from Bali to destinations like Australia, Singapore, and Malaysia due to safety concerns over ash clouds.

"Due to volcanic ash caused by Mount Lewotobi in Indonesia, it is currently not safe to operate to and from Bali," Australian airline Jetstar said on Wednesday, adding that they are closely monitoring the situation and will resume flights once 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's airport, reported that 34 flights were disrupted on Tuesday alone.

The Lewotobi Laki-Laki volcano, located on the island of Flores in East Nusa Tenggara province, just 500 kilometres from Bali, has been active again since late 2023. In recent months, it has repeatedly emitted hot gases and ash into the atmosphere.

During the most intense eruption, 10 days ago, the volcano suddenly hurled ash and glowing rocks miles into the air.

The rocks, which fell like glowing hail on seven surrounding villages, caused severe damage and ignited fires. At least nine people lost their lives. Thousands more were forced to flee, seeking refuge in evacuation centres.

The world's largest archipelago nation, Indonesia, is situated on the so-called Pacific Ring of Fire, the most geologically active zone on Earth.