Hayli Gubbi Volcano eruption: Air India, IndiGo and Akasa Air issue updates on flight delays amid ash cloud drift over India

Core Insights - The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has issued a safety advisory to airlines following the eruption of the Hayli Gubbi volcano, which has caused volcanic ash to drift towards northern India, prompting heightened aviation operations alertness [15] Group 1: Advisory and Operational Guidelines - Airlines are urged to avoid regions and altitudes affected by volcanic ash and to review operational manuals on volcanic ash procedures [15] - Airlines must maintain continuous monitoring of satellite imagery, Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC) bulletins, and ash-movement forecasts [2][15] - Airports are advised to inspect runways, taxiways, and aprons for ash and suspend operations until surfaces are cleared [15] Group 2: Flight Disruptions and Airline Responses - Several flights have already been affected, including KLM Royal Dutch Airlines cancelling its Amsterdam–Delhi service and Air India flight AI 358 being delayed before take-off [5][6][15] - IndiGo flight 6E 1433 was diverted to Ahmedabad to avoid the ash plume, and another Indian carrier conducted engine checks in Abu Dhabi [7][15] - Indian carriers, including SpiceJet and Akasa Air, have issued updates advising passengers to monitor flight status closely and emphasize passenger safety [9][10][15] Group 3: Volcanic Activity and Impact - The Hayli Gubbi volcano erupted for the first time in nearly 10,000 years, sending ash plumes across the Red Sea towards Oman and Yemen, and moving eastwards towards northern India [11][15] - Officials warn that even limited ash exposure can damage aircraft engines, leading to expected detours, delays, and cancellations [12][15] - Passengers are advised to frequently check flight status and follow airline updates as the situation develops [13][15]