A powerful eruption of Anak Krakatau in Indonesia has caused major disruptions to air travel, with volcanic ash spreading across parts of Java and Sumatra.
The eruption forced authorities to temporarily close eight airports, including Jakarta’s major Soekarno-Hatta International Airport. Volcanic ash reached altitudes of up to approximately 50,000 feet, creating a serious aviation hazard because ash can damage aircraft engines and other critical systems.
The disruption was enormous. Nearly 3,000 flights were canceled or delayed, affecting approximately 341,000 travelers as airports dealt with ash contamination and safety inspections. Flights eventually began returning to normal after authorities determined conditions were safe enough to reopen airports.
The eruption also affected daily life on the ground. Ash fell across communities, schools moved to remote learning in some areas, and fishing activities were halted because of concerns about ash and air quality. Residents were advised to limit exposure to volcanic ash and wear masks when outside.
Anak Krakatau sits in the Sunda Strait between Java and Sumatra. It is the volcanic offspring of the legendary Krakatau volcano, whose catastrophic 1883 eruption was followed by a massive tsunami. Anak Krakatau itself produced another deadly tsunami in 2018.
Authorities say the volcano remains active and are continuing to monitor it closely. The latest eruption did not produce an immediate tsunami threat, but officials remain cautious because additional eruptions are possible.
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