Volcanic Eruption in Ethiopia Disrupts Air Travel: IndiGo, Akasa, KLM Cancel Flights to Middle East, India, and Beyond, Here’s What You Need to Know

Published on December 6, 2025

An unexpected volcanic eruption in Ethiopia has caused significant disruption to international air travel, particularly affecting flights to the Middle East. The ash plume resulting from the eruption of the Hayli Gubbi volcano, located in the Afar Rift region of Ethiopia, has forced several airlines to cancel flights. IndiGo, Akasa Air, and KLM are among the carriers that have taken precautionary measures, cancelling flights due to the hazardous conditions posed by the ash cloud.

Volcanic Ash Cloud’s Impact on Air Travel

The eruption of the Hayli Gubbi volcano, which occurred for the first time in over 10,000 years, released a massive ash cloud reaching altitudes of up to 45,000 feet. This cloud, moving northeast at speeds of 100 to 120 km/h, entered Indian airspace on Monday and began to affect several regions, including parts of western India. Given the risks associated with volcanic ash—such as engine damage and reduced visibility—affected airlines made the decision to cancel flights to safeguard passenger safety.

The Indian Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) responded promptly, advising all Indian carriers to assess their flight plans and adjust fuel intake accordingly. Airlines were instructed to avoid any flight routes that intersected with the ash cloud or were at risk of being affected by the ash fallout. In addition, the DGCA emphasized that operators must monitor the situation closely and adhere to updated international aviation safety protocols.

Cancelled Flights and Airline Responses

IndiGo and Akasa Air both announced the cancellation of several flights to the Middle East, including routes to Jeddah, Kuwait, and Abu Dhabi. The ash cloud’s movement made these flights particularly dangerous, prompting the airlines to cancel services scheduled for November 24th and 25th. Additionally, KLM cancelled its Amsterdam to Delhi flight, reflecting the widespread impact of the ash plume on European and South Asian air traffic.

These cancellations have disrupted the travel plans of many passengers, particularly those with urgent business or tourism-related reasons for flying. In response, the airlines reassured customers that they were closely monitoring the evolving situation and adhering to international aviation advisories to ensure the safety of all flights. Passengers affected by these cancellations are being offered alternative travel arrangements or refunds, with the situation being evaluated on a day-by-day basis.

Safety Measures and Recommendations for Travelers

Volcanic ash is a known threat to aviation, capable of causing severe damage to aircraft engines and sensors, as well as impairing the functionality of critical systems. Ash clouds can also severely reduce visibility, making navigation difficult. The DGCA has mandated airlines to conduct additional safety checks, particularly on airports’ runways, taxiways, and aprons, as ash can also impact ground operations. In the case of contamination, cleaning procedures are necessary before operations can resume safely.

For travelers, the ongoing situation in India, Ethiopia, and the broader Middle Eastern region underscores the importance of remaining flexible. Passengers planning to fly to or from regions affected by the ash cloud are advised to stay informed by regularly checking their airline’s website or mobile app for real-time updates. Additionally, travelers should be prepared for potential delays or cancellations, especially for flights to destinations such as Jeddah, Abu Dhabi, and Kuwait.

What Travelers Should Do

Here are a few essential tips for travelers who may be affected by the disruptions caused by the volcanic eruption:

1. Monitor Your Flight Status: Always check your flight status before heading to the airport. Airlines like IndiGo, Akasa Air, and KLM will provide timely updates on cancellations and rescheduling.
2. Stay Flexible: If your flight has been cancelled, airlines are offering alternative flight arrangements or refunds. Be sure to contact the airline to rebook your flight at no additional cost if you wish to travel at a later date.
3. Check for Delays: If your flight is still scheduled to depart, be aware of potential delays. The ash cloud may cause unexpected disruptions in your travel plans.
4. Consult Airline Policies: Understand the compensation and refund policies of your airline to ensure a smooth process if your travel plans are significantly altered.

The Broader Impact on Travel and Tourism

While the volcanic ash cloud has led to direct flight cancellations, it also highlights the vulnerability of the aviation industry to unforeseen natural events. Disruptions like these can have a ripple effect on tourism and business travel, particularly in regions heavily reliant on air connectivity. For instance, Jeddah, Abu Dhabi, and Kuwait are key hubs for business travelers and tourists, particularly from India. These cancellations are likely to have an impact on both inbound and outbound travel from these cities.

Moreover, the incident underscores the importance of continued investment in technology and infrastructure to better predict and respond to natural disasters that affect global travel. Airlines and airports alike must continue to prioritize safety while balancing operational needs in an increasingly interconnected world.

The Importance of Volcanic Ash Safety Measures

While the immediate effects of the eruption are being handled with caution, the incident serves as a reminder of the vital importance of safety measures in aviation. Ash clouds present a significant risk not only to the flight crew and passengers but also to the global travel network at large. Airlines and regulatory bodies must remain vigilant and ready to implement protocols quickly to minimize disruptions and safeguard public safety.

This situation serves as an example of how aviation and tourism sectors must work together in partnership with national governments to ensure that air travel remains safe, even in the face of unpredictable natural events.