Akasa Air has cancelled several flights operating on Gulf routes after a major volcanic eruption in Ethiopia sent massive ash clouds drifting into regional airspace. According to initial reports, the airline took the step as a precautionary measure to ensure passenger and crew safety, since volcanic ash can severely damage aircraft engines and compromise visibility.
The decision comes after aviation advisories warned airlines operating between India and Gulf nations to avoid specific air corridors impacted by the ash plume.
Why Akasa Air Took This Step
Volcanic ash is one of the biggest threats to aviation. Even a small amount of ash can:
Damage aircraft engines
Reduce cockpit visibility
Affect navigation systems
Scratch aircraft windows and sensors
The Ethiopian eruption sent ash clouds moving westward, affecting regional flight paths.
Akasa Air’s Gulf operations—especially flights to Doha, Dubai, Riyadh, and Jeddah—were expected to pass through these regions.
Flights Impacted
Akasa Air has temporarily suspended or rescheduled:
India → Gulf flights
Gulf → India return flights
Passengers have been advised to check updated timings and status before heading to the airport.
What Passengers Should Know
✔ Full Refund or Free Rescheduling
Passengers on cancelled flights are being offered flexible options:
Free date change
Full refund
Flight rebooking once operations resume
✔ Real-Time Updates
The airline is expected to issue fresh updates depending on:
Ash cloud movement
International flight advisories
Clearance from aviation authorities
✔ Safety First Approach
Airlines globally follow strict protocols when volcanic ash is detected, making cancellation the safest choice.
How Long Will Disruptions Last?
The situation depends on:
Weather patterns
Ash cloud dispersion
Satellite monitoring updates
While normal operations may resume soon, airlines are prioritising safety over schedule pressure.
Impact on Other Airlines
Several international carriers operating through the same route are also monitoring the situation, and some may adjust their flight paths or timings.
FAQs
1. Why did Akasa Air cancel Gulf flights?
Due to volcanic ash from an Ethiopian eruption drifting into key flight routes, posing a safety risk.
2. Which destinations are affected?
Flights connecting India with Gulf nations like Dubai, Doha, Riyadh, and Jeddah may be impacted.
3. Will passengers get refunds?
Yes. Free rebooking or full refunds are being offered.
4. How long will disruptions continue?
It depends on ash cloud movement. Airlines are monitoring updates closely.
5. Is flying through volcanic ash dangerous?
Yes. It can damage aircraft engines and reduce visibility, which is why cancellations are necessary.
Published on : 25th November
Published by : SMITA
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Source Credit: Content inspired by ANI report.