The Danger of Ethiopian Volcanic Ash for Flights: How Hazardous is it?

Ethiopian volcanic ash has become a matter of concern for many countries, especially for aircrafts. The ash, which has also reached India, poses a significant danger for flights. The eruption of the volcano and the spread of ash in the sky have impacted several airlines’ operations. Most people underestimate volcanic ash, considering it as ordinary smoke or light dust. However, it is a dense mixture of fine, sharp, and mineral particles. After the eruption, this ash can reach altitudes of 10 to 15 kilometers, precisely where most passenger aircraft fly. The worst impact of volcanic ash is on the aircraft engines directly. The particles of ash can melt on contact with the engine’s heat, sticking to the turbine blades and obstructing the airflow. In this situation, the engine can suddenly fail, potentially causing a major incident.