Travel Disruptions In Bali Following Mount Lewotobi Eruption: Here’s What You Need To Know If You Are Now Planning A Trip

Published on July 8, 2025

The latest eruption of Mount Lewotobi Laki Laki on Flores, an Indonesian island, has hit travel to and from Bali hard, one of Indonesia’s busiest tourist hubs. On Monday, July 7, 2025, a massive eruption spewed plumes of volcanic ashes as high as 18 kilometers (11 miles) into the sky. This has led to cancellation and postponement of hundreds of flights, especially by airlines connecting Australia and Bali, and hit local flights connecting cities in Southeast Asia.

Mount Lewotobi’s Volcanic Activity and Impact on Bali Travel

Located in East Nusa Tenggara, Mount Lewotobi Laki Laki has a history of significant volcanic activity, making it one of Indonesia’s most active volcanoes. The eruption on July 7 followed a smaller eruption on June 18, which caused major flight disruptions as well. Airlines like Jetstar, Qantas, and Virgin Australia have reported ongoing issues with flights to and from Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport, one of the busiest airports in Indonesia. The ash cloud, which reached unprecedented heights, disrupted flights not only to Bali but also to various destinations across Southeast Asia and Australia.

Although Ngurah Rai International Airport remained open, the eruption has still led to numerous flight cancellations and delays. Arrivals from cities such as Bangkok, Jakarta, and Singapore were diverted to alternate airports before the eruption. Some flights continued, but delays were significant, especially for services to Australian cities. Passengers traveling from destinations like Sydney to Bali saw flight delays stretching into the following day. Even after the eruption, passengers have continued to face disruptions with airlines actively adjusting their schedules.

Flight Safety and Why Cancellations Are Necessary

Volcanic ash poses significant risks to air travel, as it can damage jet engines, disrupt flight operations, and block visibility for pilots. The ash particles can also affect the cabin pressurization system, leading to potential failures. These dangers explain why airlines are cautious and cancel flights when volcanic ash is present along flight routes. The flight cancellations and delays are in response to the safety concerns associated with volcanic eruptions, especially when ash is dispersed in flight paths.

Although Ngurah Rai International Airport remains open, airlines such as Qantas and Virgin Australia have taken precautionary measures to ensure the safety of passengers. Virgin Australia, for instance, has announced that some flights to and from Bali have been cancelled due to the eruption. They have stated that safety is their primary concern, and expert meteorologists are closely monitoring the situation. Similarly, Jetstar has acknowledged the disruptions and reassured customers that they are actively keeping track of the developments to adjust flight schedules accordingly.

What Passengers Can Expect and How to Stay Informed

For passengers traveling to or from Bali, the situation remains fluid, and delays are expected to continue as airlines monitor volcanic activity. Travelers are advised to keep track of flight updates through their airlines’ websites and apps. Most airlines affected by the eruption are rebooking passengers on the first available flights without additional charges. However, compensation for cancellations is not generally provided, as the eruption is considered an “Act of God,” which falls outside the airlines’ control.

In the event of significant disruptions, airlines typically provide assistance, including accommodation, meals, and phone calls for those waiting for the next available flight. Travelers are encouraged to contact their respective airlines directly for further details on their rights and options.

The Indonesian Government’s Response and Safety Warnings

The Indonesian government, through its Geological Agency (Badan Geologi), has closely monitored the eruption and provided real-time updates. The eruption of Mount Lewotobi on July 7 sent a massive cloud of gas and ash down the slopes of the volcano. Fortunately, there were no immediate reports of casualties or injuries. However, local authorities have issued warnings about the potential for lahar floods—debris flows composed of volcanic materials—especially if heavy rainfall occurs. These events can cause further disruption and pose significant risks to nearby communities.

The Indonesian Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources has urged residents in areas near the volcano to remain vigilant and follow evacuation orders if necessary. Travel restrictions have been put in place around the volcano’s immediate vicinity, with warnings advising against traveling within a 7-kilometer radius of the crater. This has been in line with the general safety guidelines for visitors to Indonesia’s active volcanoes. The government has also indicated that the eruption could lead to ongoing disruptions in the coming days.

Government Travel Advice for Tourists in Indonesia

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO) currently does not issue specific travel advice in response to this particular eruption, although it has provided general advice regarding travel to volcanoes in Indonesia. Travelers are advised to stay informed about volcanic activity in the region and to follow any updates or advisories issued by local authorities. The FCDO’s guidelines caution against all travel within 7 kilometers of certain Indonesian volcanoes, including Mount Lewotobi Laki Laki.

Can Travelers Cancel Their Holidays Due to the Volcanic Eruption?

As of now, there are no specific government warnings against traveling to Indonesia due to the July 7 eruption. This means that tourists planning their holidays to Bali and other Indonesian destinations are unlikely to be entitled to a full refund simply because of the volcanic activity. However, travelers with flexible bookings or those who have purchased travel insurance with natural disaster coverage may be able to amend their plans. It is essential for travelers to check with their holiday providers or insurers for further details on cancellations, postponements, and coverage.

Conclusion

The eruption of Lewotobi Laki Laki volcano in Indonesia has also produced widespread travel and flight disruptions in Bali, one of the world’s busiest tourist areas. Though the airport remains operational, flight cancellation and delays remain a possibility. One should monitor developments closely and consult airlines for new flight schedules. One should also stay well-informed about local safety alerts and take heed of government travel alerts for areas around affected volcanic activity.

For now, while the eruption has not led to mass casualties, the ongoing volcanic activity poses risks to air travel and surrounding communities. Travelers planning trips to Bali should prepare for potential disruptions and remain cautious as the situation develops.