Australians heading to Bali and other Indonesian destinations have been warned to expect possible flight disruption after a major volcanic eruption.
Six airports were closed and more than 200 flights, including Qantas services from Sydney and Melbourne to Jakarta, were cancelled, stranding tens of thousands of passengers.
The eruption of Mt Anak Krakatau near Lampung began on Saturday with the noise so loud it could be heard hundreds of kilometres away.
“Monitor your flight status and check with your airline or travel provider before travelling,” is the latest advice from the government’s Smartraveller service.
“Volcanic ash may affect air quality. People with asthma or other respiratory conditions should take extra care and follow health advice from local authorities.”
Qantas has confirmed that four of its services, QF39, QF40, QF41 and QF42, have been impacted by the eruption, with cancellations and other disruptions affecting flights to and from Jakarta. The airline says it is closely monitoring conditions and has contacted affected passengers.
Other international airlines, including Singapore Airlines, Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia and airlines within the Lion Air Group have also cancelled or disrupted services.
Anak Krakatau is located in the Sunda Strait between Java and Sumatra, well away from Bali, but volcanic ash can travel hundreds of kilometres and create significant problems for aviation.
Ash is hazardous to aircraft because it can damage engines and flight systems, meaning airlines may be forced to reroute, delay or cancel services when ash clouds move into flight paths.
Services between Australia and Bali could also face knock on disruption if aircraft or crew are caught up in cancellations elsewhere in Indonesia.
Domestic connections to destinations including Bali, Lombok and other Indonesian islands could also be affected if volcanic ash or operational disruption spreads through the country’s aviation network.
Authorities said the ash cloud reached altitudes of up to around 50,000 feet over Sumatra and 20,000 feet over Java, while Indonesia’s disaster authorities advised people in affected areas to minimise outdoor activity and use protective equipment because of falling ash and poor air quality.
There have been no reports of casualties or mandatory evacuations linked to the latest eruption.
Those already in Indonesia should also monitor local authorities and airline updates, particularly if their itinerary involves connections through Jakarta or other airports affected by the ash cloud.
