Indonesia's Anak Krakatau volcano erupted early Sunday, forcing the cancellation of flights at Jakarta's Soekarno-Hatta International Airport and disrupting services at other airports as volcanic ash spread across western Indonesia. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Associated Press.
On Monday, Sept. 7, the situation began to gradually improve, but authorities kept several airports closed. At least 30 flights were canceled due to the eruption, and hundreds of passengers were left waiting at airports. According to an AP correspondent, passengers at Soekarno-Hatta Airport in Tangerang were looking at information boards to check the status of their flights.
A drone photo released by Indonesia's Geological Agency (Badan Geologi) shows Mount Anak Krakatau spewing volcanic smoke in the Sunda Strait. The photo was taken on Sept. 5. The volcano is a remnant of Krakatau, infamous for its catastrophic eruption in 1883.
Although Indonesian authorities have lowered the alert level, several airports remain closed due to flight safety concerns. Local aviation authorities are monitoring the spread of ash and making decisions accordingly. Passengers are advised to check flight schedules in advance.
Anak Krakatau is one of Indonesia's most active volcanoes. It is located in the Sunda Strait and has erupted several times in recent years. The 2018 eruption triggered a tsunami that killed hundreds of people. The current eruption has so far caused no casualties, but authorities urge residents to remain cautious.
Operations at Jakarta's airport have been partially restored, but some flights remain canceled. Domestic flights connecting Indonesia's many islands are also experiencing delays. Tourists and locals are advised to follow official airport announcements before traveling.
This event once again highlights Indonesia's vulnerability to geological hazards. The country sits on the Pacific "Ring of Fire," where volcanic eruptions and earthquakes are frequent. Authorities are strengthening disaster preparedness.
According to the Associated Press, the situation is stabilizing, but it may take several more days for airports to fully resume operations. Volcanic activity is under control, and scientists are monitoring further developments.