A recent volcanic eruption in Ethiopia has resulted in significant disruptions to flights in Delhi due to ash fallout. The ash cloud poses numerous risks for aviation, including engine damage and reduced visibility.
Impact on Flights and Operations
Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, the director general of the India Meteorological Department (IMD), stated that the affected altitude ranges from 8.5 km to 15 km above sea level. He indicated that the ash cloud reached northern India and is moving towards China.
Temporary effects on satellite functions and flight operations are expected. However, the ash is not anticipated to impact local weather conditions or overall air quality. IMD forecasts clearing skies over Delhi by Tuesday evening.
Flight Cancellations and Advisory
Flight operations have suffered considerably, with Air India cancelling 11 flights. Other airlines, including IndiGo, Akasa Air, and KLM, have also been affected. IndiGo has informed passengers that they are closely monitoring the situation in coordination with international aviation authorities.
- Passengers are advised to check flight statuses prior to heading to the airport.
- Mumbai Airport has issued similar warnings to travelers.
- The Directorate General of Civil Aviation in India has recommended that pilots report any signs of ash encounters, including engine performance issues.
Volcanic Ash Contamination Levels
There are three identified levels of volcanic ash contamination: low, medium, and high. The exact level of contamination from this eruption remains undetermined. GP Sharma from Skymet Weather emphasized the challenges in measuring ash contamination due to the need for prior sensor deployment.
Historical Context and Significance
While volcanic ash clouds are relatively rare, their impact can be extensive. A significant historical example is the eruption of Iceland’s Eyjafjallajökull volcano in 2010, which led to unprecedented air travel disruptions across Europe, affecting flights globally.
Conclusion
As the situation develops, passengers are urged to remain informed and cautious. Airlines are adapting to the evolving conditions while working to ensure safety in air travel.
