Incredible images have surfaced capturing the massive ash cloud from Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki in Indonesia, which has disrupted travel for thousands and forced Australian airlines to cancel flights to and from Bali.
Since early November, East Nusa Tenggara’s Mount Lewotobi has erupted several times, leading to flight chaos. So far, the eruptions have tragically claimed at least nine lives. The continuing volcanic activity has created an enormous ash cloud that now poses a significant threat to airline operations. In response, Jetstar, Qantas, and Virgin Australia have all canceled flights, leaving travelers disappointed, stranded, or uncertain about their travel plans.
Airlines Respond to Safety Concerns
Virgin Australia canceled all flights in and out of Bali on Wednesday, explaining that passenger safety was the main priority. The airline’s meteorology team is monitoring the situation closely. A Virgin Australia spokesperson said, “We regret the inconvenience this has caused our passengers, and our team is working hard to ensure all passengers booked on our services get to their destination safely and as soon as possible.”
Jetstar, in its latest update, confirmed that flights would be grounded until at least 2 pm AEDT on Wednesday. “Due to volcanic ash caused by the Mount Lewotobi eruption in Indonesia, it is currently not safe to operate flights to and from Bali,” said a Jetstar alert. The airline is, however, planning to operate additional flights, including a larger 787 aircraft service, as soon as conditions permit to accommodate affected passengers.
Qantas, similarly, has delayed two return flights from Sydney and is closely observing the ash cloud’s impact. In a statement, the airline emphasized that safety remains paramount. “Due to volcanic ash caused by the Mount Lewotobi eruption in Indonesia, it’s currently not safe to operate flights to and from Bali,” the statement read.
Indonesia’s Volcanic Landscape
Situated on the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” Indonesia is one of the world’s most volcanically active regions. Volcanic and seismic events occur frequently, and while these natural phenomena add to the country’s dramatic landscapes, they also come with risks that impact daily life and travel.
Travelers with plans to visit Bali are advised to check their flight status directly with their airlines for the latest updates. This volcanic event highlights the need for caution when traveling in volcanic regions, especially during periods of increased activity.
𝐒𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞, 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞, 𝐬𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐞, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐭𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐟𝐚𝐯𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐞 𝐧𝐞𝐰𝐬 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐥!
📌YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@serendibnews
📌Facebook – https://web.facebook.com/serendibnews.com.au/
📌Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/serendibnewsau
📌TikTok – https://www.tiktok.com/@serendibnews
📌Twitter- https://x.com/SerendibNewsAu
📌LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/serendib-news-au/
📌WhatsApp Group – https://tinyurl.com/2as67j52
📌WhatsApp Channel – https://tinyurl.com/bdf8f2jr
