Several international airlines have canceled flights to and from Bali due to an ongoing volcanic eruption, leaving travelers stranded at airports. Tourists have been stuck at Bali’s airport since Tuesday after their flights were suddenly canceled. Thousands of people were reportedly stranded at airports in Indonesia and Australia.
Mount Lewotobi Laki Laki volcano in Indonesia's East Nusa Tenggara province has been erupting since Nov. 4, spewing ash high into the air. The volcano erupted multiple times on Tuesday, with the largest column reaching 9 kilometers high. The danger zone was expanded as volcanic materials were thrown up to 8 kilometers from the crater.
The volcanic activity has disrupted flights at Bali’s I Gusti Ngurah Rai international airport. Over the past four days, 84 flights were affected, with 26 domestic and 64 overseas flights canceled on Wednesday alone. Airlines from various countries, including Singapore, Hong Kong, Qatar, India, and Malaysia, have canceled or delayed flights to Bali.
Several Australian airlines, including Jetstar, Virgin Australia, and Qantas, have canceled or delayed flights to Bali. Air New Zealand also canceled a flight to Denpasar. Korean Air had to turn back two flights to Bali due to volcanic ash.
Mount Lewotobi Laki Laki is one of Indonesia's 120 active volcanoes and is part of the Ring of Fire, a region prone to seismic activity. The eruption in January led to the evacuation of 6,500 people. Three other airports in neighboring districts have been closed due to volcanic ash.
The situation is being closely monitored by authorities and airlines are offering refunds or rescheduling options to affected travelers. Passengers are advised to check with their airlines for the latest updates on flight operations to and from Bali.
