A volcanic ash cloud drifting from Ethiopia&rsquo;s Hayli Gubbi eruption has triggered widespread air travel disruption across India, forcing cancellations, diversions and emergency advisories. The DGCA issued an ASHTAM alert, an aviation warning specific to volcanic ash directing airlines to avoid affected altitudes and report any unusual engine behaviour.
IndiGo cancelled several domestic and international flights, while Akasa Air suspended services to Jeddah, Kuwait and Abu Dhabi. KLM also cancelled its Delhi - Amsterdam operations, citing safety concerns as dense ash plumes moved over northern India. Some international carriers rerouted flights through Pakistani airspace, but Indian airlines were unable to use those paths, worsening delays.
The Ethiopian volcano erupting after almost 12,000 years sent massive ash clouds across the Red Sea and Arabian Peninsula before drifting toward India. Satellite imagery shows portions of the plume passing over Delhi, Haryana and parts of western Uttar Pradesh, prompting airports to inspect runways and aircraft bays for ash deposits.
While meteorologists say the ash remains at high altitude with limited impact on air quality, aviation experts warn of potential engine abrasion, reduced visibility and radar interference. Authorities have advised airports and airlines to maintain continuous monitoring of weather updates until the plume disperses fully.

Ethiopia’s volcanic plume disrupts air travel as airlines cancel routes; DGCA issues alert

Volcanic Ash Halts Flights Across India

Ethiopia’s volcanic plume disrupts air travel as airlines cancel routes; DGCA issues alert

November 25, 2025 | 11:35 IST