Hayli Gubbi Volcano Eruption: Ethiopia’s Massive Eruption Sends Ash Clouds Into India; Flights Affected Across Gujarat & Rajasthan
Ash and sulfur dioxide clouds enter Indian airspace; DGCA issues emergency advisory to all airlines
Hayli Gubbi Volcano Eruption:
A massive volcanic eruption in Hayli Gubbi, Ethiopia, has created a chain reaction across continents — with huge ash and sulfur dioxide clouds now entering India via Gujarat and Rajasthan, impacting aviation routes and prompting serious safety warnings from aviation authorities.
15 km High Ash Plume Sparks Global Concern
On Sunday, Ethiopia witnessed an explosive eruption that sent lava, smoke and ash nearly 15 km into the sky. Dramatic visuals of the eruption have gone viral on social media, showing widespread panic and destruction.
Space and weather monitoring agencies reported that the ash cloud travelled rapidly through Oman and Yemen before entering Indian airspace on Monday evening.
The ash cloud is currently drifting toward Delhi and the Himalayan region at speeds of 100–120 km/hour, raising aviation and atmospheric concerns.
DGCA Issues High Alert for Airlines
India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has issued a set of strict instructions to all airlines following the entry of volcanic ash into Indian skies.
The ash clouds consist of:
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Volcanic ash
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Sulfur dioxide
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Glass particles
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Fine rock dust
These particles are found at altitudes between 10,000 ft and 45,000 ft, posing a severe threat to aircraft engines and sensors.
Key DGCA Safety Instructions to Airlines
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Avoid flying through volcanic ash zones.
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Reroute flights and ensure additional fuel reserves.
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Inspect aircraft thoroughly after entering affected airspace.
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Check engines for performance issues and ash deposits.
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Monitor cabin air for smoke or dust.
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Follow all manufacturer safety protocols without exception.
Impact on Indian Air Traffic
Ash clouds have already disrupted flights in India:
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An IndiGo Kannur–Abu Dhabi flight was diverted to Ahmedabad.
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Air India, IndiGo and Akasa Air have issued alerts about possible delays, cancellations and route changes.
Volcanic ash can cause:
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Severe engine failure
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Blocked sensors
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Fuel system malfunction
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Potential mid-air emergencies
Thus, authorities are taking maximum precautions.
First Eruption After 10,000 Years
According to geological records, the Hayli Gubbi region last witnessed a similar eruption 10,000 years ago.
The sudden reactivation has disrupted aviation in Ethiopia, Oman and Yemen, with many flights cancelled or diverted, including international ones.
