A massive ash cloud from Ethiopia’s Hayli Gubbi volcano swept into northwestern India on Monday night, affecting visibility and forcing airlines to cancel or reroute multiple flights across major states, including Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Delhi-NCR and Punjab.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) confirmed that an advisory had been issued to airports and airlines, warning them of potential operational disruptions due to the volcanic ash drifting over India. The regulator urged carriers to stay vigilant, track real-time meteorological updates and implement safety protocols as conditions evolved.
The impact on aviation was immediate. Akasa Air, IndiGo and KLM cancelled several flights as the ash cloud expanded its reach. Airline operations were adjusted through route changes, cancellations and delays while authorities continued to assess the moving plume.
In an earlier notice on Monday, the DGCA had already instructed airlines to avoid specific air corridors and altitudes affected by the Hayli Gubbi volcano’s eruption, which took place on Sunday. Airports were directed to inspect runways for ash deposits and halt operations if contamination was detected. Officials also cautioned that diversions and delays were likely through the evening.
Some flights experienced on-ground and in-air disruptions. IndiGo’s Kannur–Abu Dhabi service (6E 1433) was diverted to Ahmedabad to avoid the ash-affected pathway. Another Indian airline operating a flight bound for Abu Dhabi carried out extensive engine checks before commencing its return journey.
Following the DGCA alert, Air India issued a statement on X, noting: “Following the volcanic eruption in Ethiopia, ash clouds have been observed over certain geographical regions. We are closely monitoring the situation and remain in constant touch with our operating crew. There is no major impact on Air India flights at this time. We will take all necessary steps under our precautionary plans to ensure the safety of our passengers, crew and aircraft, which remains our top priority. Our ground teams across the network will continue to support passengers and keep them updated on their flights.”
Akasa Air also posted an update, saying: “We are closely monitoring the volcanic activity in Ethiopia and its potential impact on flight operations… passenger safety and well-being is our utmost priority.”
Meanwhile, the ash plume continued its trajectory past Oman and Yemen. Although its density was expected to decrease as it travelled across land and sea gradually, aviation authorities remained particularly watchful over Delhi and Jaipur airspace, identified as key areas of concern while the cloud drifted over the region.
