If you’re planning a trip to Bali, you might want to check your flight status. Indonesia’s Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki volcano has erupted again, causing several Australian flights to be cancelled or delayed.
This is the second time in as many months that the volcano has erupted, and it’s having a significant impact on air travel between Australia and Bali.
What’s Happening with the Volcano?
The eruption on Monday sent a massive ash and smoke column 18 kilometres into the sky, prompting Indonesia’s geological agencies to issue a high-level emergency alert on the tourist island of Flores.
The volcano’s ash cloud is being closely monitored by Australian airlines to determine whether more flights will be affected.
So far, at least five return international flights between Australia and Bali have been cancelled, and several others have been delayed.
Impact on Flights
If you’re scheduled to travel to or from Bali, it’s essential to check with your airline for the latest updates.
Virgin Australia, Qantas, and Jetstar have all been affected by the eruption, with several flights cancelled or delayed.
For example, Qantas flights QF43 from Sydney and QF45 from Melbourne to Denpasar, Bali, were delayed due to the eruption.
The Perth Airport website also reports that two Bali-bound Jetstar flights were cancelled.
The Science Behind the Eruption
Observations from drones showed lava filling the crater, indicating deep movement of magma that triggered volcanic earthquakes.
The geohazard agency warned of the possibility of hazardous lahar floods — a type of mud or debris flow of volcanic materials — if heavy rain occurs, particularly for communities near rivers.
The agency has also increased the volcano’s alert status and expanded the exclusion zone to a 7km radius.
What to Expect Next
The situation is being closely monitored by airline operators and geological agencies.
If you’re planning to travel to Bali, it’s crucial to stay up-to-date with the latest information from your airline and the Australian government’s travel advisory website.
With Indonesia being located on the “Ring of Fire,” a horseshoe-shaped series of seismic fault lines encircling the Pacific Basin, volcanic eruptions are not uncommon.
The country has 120 active volcanoes, and Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki is just one of them.
Travel Tips
If you’re affected by the flight cancellations or delays, it’s essential to contact your airline directly to discuss your options. You may be able to rebook your flight or receive a refund, depending on the airline’s policies.
It’s also a good idea to check your travel insurance policy to see if you’re covered for travel disruptions caused by natural disasters. Stay safe, and stay informed!