A massive ash plume from Ethiopia’s Hayli Gubbi volcano has drifted into Indian airspace, triggering flight disruptions across western and northern regions, aviation authorities confirmed. The plume, traveling at speeds of 100–120 km/h and reaching heights of up to 14 km, prompted the DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation) to issue a special advisory.
Airlines including Air India, IndiGo, and Akasa Air responded by cancelling or diverting multiple flights, especially those operating to and from the Middle East.Air India alone grounded 11 flights to carry out precautionary inspections of aircraft that may have passed through the ash-laden airspace.
The IMD (India Meteorological Department) confirmed the ash cloud entered Indian skies via Gujarat before sweeping across Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Delhi-NCR, Punjab, and other northern areas. While the plume is projected to move toward the Himalayas, its high-altitude position (above 10 km) makes surface-level air quality impacts minimal, though visibility issues and darker skies have been reported.
Airlines have been instructed to continuously monitor satellite data, issue volcanic-ash alerts (ASHTAMs), and report any suspected ash encounters, such as engine anomalies or cabin odor, immediately. Airport operators have also been advised to inspect and clean runways and taxiways if ash contamination is detected.
According to forecasts, the ash cloud may exit Indian airspace by Tuesday evening as it shifts toward China.
