Ethiopia’s Hayli Gubbi Volcano Erupts, Affecting Flights Across South Asia

The recent eruption of Ethiopia’s Hayli Gubbi volcano marks its first activity in millennia, spewing dense ash and smoke that has disrupted air travel across South Asia, extending its reach as far as India.

Located in the Afar Region of Ethiopia, the volcano erupted on November 23, 2025, unleashing a towering ash column that rose between 10 and 15 kilometers into the atmosphere. This dramatic event quickly cast a shadow over the horizon.

Footage shared on X captures the peak of the eruption, a sight so striking it could even be observed from outer space. This eruption is unprecedented, with no similar activity recorded in roughly 12,000 years.

According to data from the Volcanic Ash Advisory Centers (VAAC), the resulting ash cloud drifted eastward, impacting regions across the Arabian Peninsula and South Asia. It first reached countries like Yemen, Oman, northern Pakistan, and later made its way to India.

By the evening of November 24, 2025, the ash cloud arrived in the Delhi-NCR area as well as several states including Gujarat, Rajasthan, Punjab, and Haryana. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) announced that the ash cloud was expected to exit the country by 19:30 local time on November 25, 2025, continuing its journey elsewhere.

Impact of Volcanic Ash on Air Travel

The expansive ash cloud has significantly affected air travel in India, causing numerous flight disruptions and raising alarms in countries along its trajectory.

On November 24, 2025, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) issued a notice advising airlines to avoid areas of airspace contaminated by volcanic ash. Airports were also instructed to assess runways for ash deposits and suspend operations if necessary.

As a result, many airlines, both domestic and international, have had to cancel, delay, or reroute flights in Indian airspace.

In a statement, Air India reported the cancellation of 11 flights on November 24-25, 2025, while conducting precautionary checks on aircraft that had flown over the affected regions. The airline is assisting passengers with updated travel information and alternative options.

Meanwhile, IndiGo reported that it had not canceled any flights but was closely monitoring the situation in coordination with international aviation authorities. The airline assured passengers that it is ready to implement all necessary precautions for safe operations.

SpiceJet released a statement indicating that the ash could influence flight operations for aircraft navigating parts of the Arabian Peninsula, urging passengers traveling to or from Dubai to confirm their flight status.

Akasa Air is also following precautionary measures in alignment with international aviation guidelines, ensuring that all essential actions are taken.

As of November 25, 2025, the ash cloud was moving toward Nepal, Bhutan, and central China, but leading Chinese airlines had not yet issued travel warnings.