Volcano Ash Cloud Grounds Bali Flights from Flores Island

Volcanic Eruption Disrupts International Flights from Bali: What Travelers Need to Know

Seven international flights from Bali, Indonesia, have been abruptly cancelled due to a significant volcanic eruption. Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki, located on Flores Island in East Nusa Tenggara Province, erupted on March 20, 2025, sending dark ash soaring approximately eight kilometers into the atmosphere. This incident has not only affected air travel but also raised concerns about safety in the region.

The eruption, which occurred shortly after shallow volcanic earthquakes began on March 20, was confirmed by Indonesia’s Center for Volcanology and Geological Disaster Mitigation. The ash plume reached an altitude of 8,000 meters (26,200 feet), prompting authorities to elevate the volcano’s alert status from Level III to Level IV, indicating a more dangerous situation.

Safety Warnings and Flight Cancellations

Indonesian officials are urging residents and tourists to avoid activities within a 7-kilometer radius of the volcano, specifically in the southwest and northeast sectors. Andadina Dyah, spokesperson for Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS), reported that as of March 21, 2025, at 09:45 local time, seven international flights had been cancelled.

• Cancelled Flights:
  • Six Jetstar flights to Australia
  • One AirAsia flight to Kuala Lumpur

In addition to these cancellations, several other domestic and international flights, including those bound for Thailand and Singapore, have experienced delays. Jetstar has announced that operations between Australia and Bali would resume as conditions improve.

Impact on Local Airports

The Ministry of Transport of Malaysia has confirmed that Frans Xavier Seda Airport (MOF) in Maumere, Flores, remains unaffected by volcanic ash, continuing to operate normally. However, the situation remains fluid, and travelers are advised to stay informed about their flights.

Previous Eruptions and Safety Concerns

This isn’t the first time Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki has caused significant disruption. The last eruption in November 2024 tragically resulted in the loss of at least 10 lives and led to widespread flight cancellations across Asia, leaving many travelers stranded.

Conclusion

As the situation develops, travelers planning to visit Bali or surrounding areas should stay updated on flight statuses and heed safety warnings issued by local authorities. For more information on volcanic activity and travel safety, check credible sources like Indonesia’s Center for Volcanology and Geological Disaster Mitigation and local news outlets.

Have you experienced travel disruptions due to natural events? Share your thoughts in the comments, and check out our related articles for more travel safety tips.