Anak Krakatoa Volcano Erupts, Jakarta Airport Suspends 209 Flights
HK01 · 2 SOURCESabout 2 hours ago1 MIN
Summary
Indonesia's Anak Krakatoa volcano erupted again on Sunday, forcing the closure of Jakarta's main international airport and grounding more than 200 flights. The eruption, which began Friday night, sent massive plumes of volcanic ash to heights of up to 15,000 meters, creating hazardous conditions for aviation across the region.
Key Points
- Soekarno-Hatta International Airport suspended all flight operations until 9:30 AM Sunday after detecting volcanic ash, extending an earlier closure from 5:30 AM
- Indonesia's Ministry of Transport confirmed 209 flights were affected, including multiple international services
- Cathay Pacific flights CX776 (Jakarta to Hong Kong), CX777, CX3249, CX719, and CX797 were among those cancelled
- Indonesian Meteorological Agency reported ash columns reaching 6,000 meters on Java's side and up to 15,000 meters over Sumatra and Banten province
- BNPB spokesperson Berton Panjaitan urged residents to wear masks and protective eyewear while minimizing outdoor activities
Why It Matters
The eruption highlights the persistent volcanic hazards in the Pacific Ring of Fire, where Indonesia sits along one of Earth's most seismically active zones. For Hong Kong travelers, this disruption underscores the cascading impact of natural disasters on regional aviation networks, with multiple flights cancelled on one of the busiest travel days of the week.
The eruption highlights the persistent volcanic hazards in the Pacific Ring of Fire, where Indonesia sits along one of Earth's most seismically active zones. For Hong Kong travelers, this disruption underscores the cascading impact of natural disasters on regional aviation networks, with multiple flights cancelled on one of the busiest travel days of the week.