A massive ash cloud from Ethiopia’s Hayli Gubbi volcano, which erupted on Sunday for the first time in nearly 12,000 years, drifted across northwest India on Monday night.
The cloud moved over Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Delhi-NCR and Punjab, reducing visibility and affecting air traffic as it travelled eastward at speeds up to 120 km/h.
The ash plume was detected at altitudes above 10 km. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said that because the cloud was at higher levels, it would not significantly worsen surface air quality in Delhi, where it arrived around 11 pm. The impact over Indian cities is expected to last only a few hours.
Flights Cancelled, DGCA Issues Advisory
Akasa Air and IndiGo cancelled or diverted several flights as the ash moved from the Red Sea toward India. IndiGo cancelled six flights, while Akasa Air suspended flights to and from Jeddah, Kuwait and Abu Dhabi for November 24–25.The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) issued an advisory instructing airlines to avoid affected altitudes, monitor updated warnings, and brief their crews on volcanic ash procedures. Pilots were asked to immediately report any suspected ash encounters, including engine fluctuations or unusual smells in the cabin.International flights into Mumbai were rerouted through Pakistani airspace, though Indian carriers cannot use this route.
Officials warned that Tuesday’s disruptions could be more severe if the ash moves over Delhi and Jaipur.
Meteorological Impact
According to IMD chief M. Mohapatra, the ash cloud will appear as hazy skies but is unlikely to have any major impact at ground level. It may cause a slight rise in minimum temperatures.
Weather trackers noted that the plume contains ash, sulphur dioxide and tiny glass-like particles, which can darken skies and pose significant aviation hazards.
However, some environmental experts warned of a possible temporary rise in pollution levels, especially as Delhi-NCR’s air quality was already close to the “severe” category on Monday, with Delhi’s AQI at 382.
Airports on Alert
The DGCA has asked airports to conduct immediate inspections if ash is detected on runways or taxiways. Operations may be halted until surfaces are cleaned. Airlines and airport operators have been instructed to monitor satellite data and advisories round the clock.