Ethiopia's Rare Volcano Eruption Sparks Ash Cloud Chaos in India, Airlines Scramble
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A rare volcanic eruption in Ethiopia has sent a massive ash cloud hurtling towards India, causing widespread disruptions to air travel and posing a challenge to airlines and air traffic controllers. The cloud, which originated from the Hayli Gubbi volcano, crossed into India through Rajasthan on Monday evening and is expected to affect parts of Delhi-NCR by late night or early Tuesday. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the ash cloud is traveling at speeds of 100-120 km/hour and is expected to have a limited impact on air pollution levels in Delhi, which is already struggling with poor air quality. However, experts warn that the cloud may lead to a temporary spike in pollution levels in the region. Several airlines, including Akasa Air and IndiGo, have canceled multiple flights due to the ash cloud, while others have been re-routed via Pakistani airspace. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has issued an advisory to airlines, asking them to avoid affected altitudes and regions and to brief personnel on the 'Operations Manual - Volcanic Ash'. As the situation continues to unfold, airlines and air traffic controllers are working closely with international aviation bodies to ensure safe and reliable operations. The impact of the ash cloud is expected to be limited to a few hours, but the situation is being closely monitored to prevent any further disruptions to air travel. Experts say that the ash cloud contains mostly volcanic ash, sulfur dioxide, and small particles of glass or rock, which can affect air traffic and make the sky appear darker. While the impact on air quality is unclear, the situation is being closely monitored to prevent any further disruptions to air travel. In the meantime, airport operators are being asked to closely monitor the situation and take necessary precautions to ensure safe and reliable operations. The DGCA has instructed operators to stay updated with evolving Ash Movement Forecasts and to disseminate this information to all relevant operational departments. As the situation continues to unfold, airlines and air traffic controllers are working closely with international aviation bodies to ensure safe and reliable operations. The impact of the ash cloud is expected to be limited to a few hours, but the situation is being closely monitored to prevent any further disruptions to air travel.
