JAKARTA — Indonesia is facing major travel disruption after renewed activity at Mount Anak Krakatau sent volcanic ash across parts of Java and Sumatra, forcing the temporary closure of eight airports and affecting more than 1,500 flights.
The eruption disrupted approximately **1,558 flights and affected around 170,000 passengers**, with Jakarta’s Soekarno-Hatta International Airport among the most heavily impacted. Several domestic and international services were cancelled, delayed or rerouted as airlines responded to the ash threat.
Anak Krakatau, located in the Sunda Strait between Java and Sumatra, produced further eruptions over the weekend. Ash plumes reportedly reached heights of up to **50,000 feet**, spreading toward populated areas and creating serious risks for aircraft. Volcanic ash can damage aircraft engines and reduce visibility, making flight operations unsafe.
The disruption has extended beyond airports. Schools in affected areas have shifted to online learning, while fishing and other outdoor activities have been restricted because of ash exposure. Authorities have advised residents to remain indoors when ash is present and to use protective masks outdoors.
Officials are closely monitoring the volcano because further eruptions remain possible. Despite the widespread disruption, authorities have reported **no immediate tsunami threat and no casualties from the latest activity**.
The latest eruption is also a reminder of Indonesia’s exposure to volcanic hazards. Anak Krakatau emerged from the remnants of the historic Krakatau volcanic system and became internationally known after its 2018 eruption triggered a deadly tsunami.
For thousands of travellers, however, the immediate priority is getting flights operating again. Airlines and airport authorities are working to clear the backlog, while passengers face continued uncertainty as volcanic activity and ash conditions are monitored.
The eruption disrupted approximately **1,558 flights and affected around 170,000 passengers**, with Jakarta’s Soekarno-Hatta International Airport among the most heavily impacted. Several domestic and international services were cancelled, delayed or rerouted as airlines responded to the ash threat.
Anak Krakatau, located in the Sunda Strait between Java and Sumatra, produced further eruptions over the weekend. Ash plumes reportedly reached heights of up to **50,000 feet**, spreading toward populated areas and creating serious risks for aircraft. Volcanic ash can damage aircraft engines and reduce visibility, making flight operations unsafe.
The disruption has extended beyond airports. Schools in affected areas have shifted to online learning, while fishing and other outdoor activities have been restricted because of ash exposure. Authorities have advised residents to remain indoors when ash is present and to use protective masks outdoors.
Officials are closely monitoring the volcano because further eruptions remain possible. Despite the widespread disruption, authorities have reported **no immediate tsunami threat and no casualties from the latest activity**.
The latest eruption is also a reminder of Indonesia’s exposure to volcanic hazards. Anak Krakatau emerged from the remnants of the historic Krakatau volcanic system and became internationally known after its 2018 eruption triggered a deadly tsunami.
For thousands of travellers, however, the immediate priority is getting flights operating again. Airlines and airport authorities are working to clear the backlog, while passengers face continued uncertainty as volcanic activity and ash conditions are monitored.