Flights in and out of Bali’s Denpasar Airport have been hit with cancellations as Mount Lewotobi Laki Laki continues to spew massive plumes of ash into the air. The volcanic activity began with a major eruption last week, and airlines have been adjusting their schedules daily as the situation evolves.
Virgin Australia has grounded all flights to and from Denpasar for the day, while Jetstar has canceled flights until at least 2 p.m., promising updates as the day progresses. Qantas’ Sydney-Bali flights are still planned for later but are currently delayed. Garuda Indonesia also posted about delays, while Batik Air Malaysia flights appear to be running on time.
Virgin Australia emphasized that passenger and crew safety is the priority and apologized for the disruption. The airline assured passengers that it’s working to get everyone to their destinations as soon as possible. Jetstar is offering affected customers the option to rebook or cancel for a voucher. They’ve also arranged additional return flights today, including a larger 787 aircraft to help clear the backlog.
Qantas managed to complete some flights yesterday, but one was turned around mid-flight. Meanwhile, four Virgin Australia flights in and out of Denpasar were canceled.
Mount Lewotobi’s increased activity has kept meteorologists on alert, with the most recent eruptions reaching new heights. Just last Friday, ash plumes were recorded soaring up to 10 kilometers high. Volcanic debris, including smoldering rocks and thumb-sized fragments of ash, has been thrown up to eight kilometers from the crater. Indonesian authorities are monitoring closely and have expanded the safety zone around the volcano, meaning airlines will likely reassess their schedules in the coming days.
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