Indonesia’s Anak Krakatau eruption has disrupted about 2,300 flights and more than 268,000 passengers, with several airports still closed as volcanic ash remains in controlled airspace.
Disruption expands across Indonesia
The scale of Indonesia’s aviation disruption has increased sharply since Sunday’s initial closures. Associated Press reported on Monday that closures affecting eight airports had disrupted about 2,300 flights and more than 268,000 passengers.
Reuters separately reported that seven airports remained closed on Monday, including Jakarta’s two main airports. Soekarno-Hatta International Airport was expected to remain shut until at least 18:00 local time, although reopening depended on ash conditions.
The figures materially update earlier reporting that counted hundreds of disrupted flights. They reflect cumulative delays and cancellations as closures were extended and schedules backed up across domestic and international routes.
Authorities keep restrictions in place
Indonesia’s Transport Ministry said airport restrictions were being extended because safety remained the priority. Its aviation directorate reported continued monitoring with airport operators, airlines and air-navigation authorities, while alternative airports were being prepared where possible.
The eruption has eased from its peak, but officials say intermittent activity and ash emissions continue. Volcanic ash can damage aircraft engines and reduce visibility, making reopening decisions dependent on wind direction and repeated airspace checks.
Schools in parts of Jakarta, West Java, Banten and Lampung moved to remote learning because of ash exposure. Authorities advised residents in affected areas to limit outdoor activity, wear masks and follow official instructions. No deaths or large-scale evacuation orders had been reported.
Travel disruption may continue
Passengers travelling through Jakarta and other affected airports should verify their flight directly with the airline before leaving for the airport. Rebooking queues and aircraft displacement may continue even after individual airports reopen.
Indonesia’s Geological Agency has warned that further eruptions remain possible. The public should observe the official exclusion zone around Anak Krakatau and avoid relying on social-media claims about tsunami risk or reopening times.
Illustration: AI-generated, non-documentary editorial artwork depicting volcanic ash and disrupted aviation. It does not represent a specific flight or moment.
Reporting and verification: Indonesia’s Transport Ministry, Associated Press and Reuters linked to the principal primary and independent reports.
