How volcanic ash from 4,000 km away is impacting Delhi’s flight paths

Experts say that although the extent of ash contamination is unknown, it is unlikely to have an impact on air quality in the affected regions.

he ash has caused several flights in India to be cancelled, delayed, or rerouted, and the nation's aviation regulator has advised airlines to "strictly avoid" impacted areas. (Image for representation: Freepik)

A volcanic eruption in Ethiopia led to the rescheduling of flights from Delhi on November 23. Well, how does that make sense? A volcano erupted 4,000 km away, and flights in a few parts of India were put on hold or cancelled.

Volcano eruption

A dormant Volcano named Hayli Gubbi erupted after several thousand years, sending volcanic ashes several kilometres into the atmosphere. This is the first time the volcano has erupted, leading to a thick cloud of ash being created in the atmosphere.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) issued an urgent advisory for airlines to avoid affected areas following a significant eruption due to a plume of volcanic ash from Ethiopia that swept across the Red Sea through Oman and Yemen and reached Delhi. At elevations between 15,000 and 45,000 feet, the plume is moving at 100–120 km per hour while carrying ash, sulphur dioxide, and tiny glass and rock fragments.

Also Read | Ethiopia volcano LIVE map: Track Hayli Gubbi eruption, movement, impact and hit areas

The ash caused several flights in India to be cancelled, delayed, or rerouted, and the aviation regulator advised airlines to “strictly avoid” affected areas. Experts have said that although the extent of ash contamination is unknown, it is unlikely to have an impact on air quality in the affected regions.

How does it affect flights?

Volcanic ash is particularly hazardous to aviation due to its abrasive nature, which can damage vital aircraft components such as engine turbine blades and clog sensors, potentially leading to engine stalling or flaming out of the engine. Additionally, for a jet engine to function in an optimal condition, it needs to have great air flow and fuel combustion, and volcanic ash can melt substances. So flights around regions across India were cancelled or delayed to avoid engine failure and risk of airflow disruption.

Another concern is that ash clouds carry toxic gases that can severely affect the cabin air quality, causing breathing problems to flyers.

On Monday, the DGCA advised airlines to avoid volcanic ash-affected areas and adjust their flight operations accordingly. Airlines must report any ash encounters, including engine anomalies or cabin issues. In cases where ash affects airport operations, operators are required to inspect runways and taxiways, with potential restrictions on operations until cleaning procedures are completed.