DGCA Issues Advisory Due to Volcanic Ash Disruptions from Ethiopia

New Delhi [India], November 24 (ANI): The Directorate General of Civil Aviation has issued a safety advisory to all airlines due to volcanic ash from Ethiopia’s Hayli Gubbi eruption affecting routes in the Middle East. The volcanic ash drifted across the Muscat Flight Information Region, prompting advisories from the Toulouse Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre and the Airports Authority of India. Airlines are urged to avoid affected areas, review volcanic ash procedures, adjust flight planning based on advisories, and report any ash encounters promptly.

In response to the disruptions, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines cancelled flights on affected routes. Indian carriers also issued warnings for passengers traveling through the Middle East. Despite ash activity in the Arabian Peninsula, no specific advisories were issued for India-bound flights. SpiceJet and Akasa Air are closely monitoring the situation, advising passengers to check their flight statuses before traveling to and from Dubai. Safety teams are coordinating with aviation authorities to ensure passenger well-being.

Authorities are closely monitoring the movement of the ash cloud following the eruption of the Hayli Gubbi volcano after nearly 10,000 years. The Toulouse Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre reported the ash cloud drifting towards northern India, prompting increased monitoring. Airlines are instructed to activate safety risk assessments and maintain satellite image monitoring for timely updates on ash movement.

Airports have been advised to conduct checks and suspend operations if ash contamination is detected. Airlines are further directed to modify dispatch procedures as needed and inspect aircraft post-flight if they flew over ash-affected zones. The DGCA emphasizes safety protocols and the importance of adhering to international aviation advisories during this period of increased volcanic activity.

The volcanic ash disruptions highlight the need for proactive measures to ensure passenger safety. Airlines and aviation authorities are working together to mitigate the impact of the ash cloud on flight operations. Passengers are encouraged to stay updated on their flight status and follow safety instructions provided by airlines during this challenging period.