Ethiopian Volcano Eruption Sparks Flight Chaos for Indian Airlines
A volcanic eruption in Ethiopia has disrupted global air travel, affecting several Indian flights. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has issued urgent advisories, instructing airlines to steer clear of volcanic ash clouds—a major threat to aircraft safety.
What Happened? The Ethiopian Volcano Eruption
On [insert date], Mount [Volcano Name] in Ethiopia’s [specific region] erupted violently, ejecting vast plumes of ash into the atmosphere. The eruption, one of the strongest in years, has disrupted flights across Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, including India.
Why is volcanic ash dangerous for flights?
– Can clog jet engines, causing failure.
– Reduces visibility and damages navigation systems.
– Forces reroutes & cancellations for safety.
Indian Flights Hit by Ash Cloud Disruptions
Major Indian airlines, including Air India, IndiGo, and SpiceJet, reported:
✔ Delays & cancellations on Africa-bound routes.
✔ Rerouted flights to avoid hazardous zones.
✔ Passenger frustration over last-minute changes.
Affected routes include:
– Mumbai-Nairobi
– Delhi-Addis Ababa
– Chennai-Johannesburg
DGCA’s Safety Directives for Airlines
The DGCA has mandated:
1. Avoiding ash zones—reroute flights if necessary.
2. Tracking ash movements via meteorological updates.
3. Prioritizing passenger safety over schedules.
Global Aviation in Turmoil
The eruption’s impact extends beyond India:
– European & Middle Eastern airlines altering paths.
– IATA warns disruptions could last days.
– Contingency plans activated worldwide.
Passenger Advisory: What to Do If Affected
- ✅ Check flight status before heading to the airport.
- ✅ Contact airlines for rebooking/refunds.
- ✅ Follow DGCA alerts for real-time updates.
Long-Term Lessons for Aviation
This incident highlights the need for stronger contingency plans against natural disasters. With climate-related disruptions rising, airlines and regulators must enhance preparedness.
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