Volcanic Eruption in Indonesia Disrupts Air Travel and Impacts Communities
An eruption from the Anak Krakatau volcano in Indonesia caused the cancellation of flights at Jakarta’s Soekarno-Hatta International Airport and affected air travel across the western part of the country. Located in the Sunda Strait between Java and Sumatra, Anak Krakatau had been active since Friday, erupting twice early Sunday. The eruptions lasted for 30 seconds at 3:53 a.m. and for 16 seconds three hours later, according to Indonesia’s Geological Agency. Footage captured lava flares from the volcanic activity.
Flight Disruptions
Although no casualties occurred and no evacuations were ordered, residents and visitors were advised to stay at least 3 kilometers from the active crater. Volcanic ash spread across parts of Jakarta and Lampung province, leading to the closure of airspace around several airports, including Soekarno-Hatta, Halim Perdanakusuma, and Radin Inten II Airport. The disruptions resulted in the cancellation of 1,558 flights, affecting 170,000 passengers. By Sunday evening, these airports remained closed until midnight.
Passenger Reactions
Travelers faced inconveniences due to the unforeseen natural disaster. Spanish tourist Diego Urdiales expressed frustration over the lack of communication from airlines, while Indonesian passenger Michele Gouw acknowledged the situation as an unavoidable force majeure. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation closely monitored the eruption’s impact to ensure safety.
Volcano Activity
Using satellite imagery, Indonesia’s volcanology agency identified two ash clouds. These plumes reached heights of 20,000 feet and 50,000 feet, drifting over Jakarta and neighboring areas. Head of Indonesia’s Geological Agency, Lana Saria, stated that activity at Anak Krakatau had intensified since July, with the recent eruption being the strongest. Magma and volcanic gases continue to supply the volcano, though the potential for larger eruptions remains uncertain. Monitoring data is used for ongoing evaluations.
Community Impact
The eruption’s effects extended beyond airports, prompting the government to allow schools in affected areas to temporarily conduct online learning to minimize exposure to ash. Anak Krakatau, a successor of Krakatau, has a history of significant eruptions, including a deadly tsunami in 2018 caused by volcanic activity and an underwater landslide.
Edna Tarigan, Dita Alangkara, and Fadlan Syam contributed to this report. Supporting trustworthy journalism is vital for a healthy democracy.