Mount Anak Krakatoa Eruption Forces Cancellation of Hundreds of Flights at Jakarta’s Main Airport

A volcanic eruption has caused widespread flight disruptions at Indonesia’s primary international gateway, leaving tens of thousands of travelers stranded.

Officials announced the suspension of 209 flights after volcanic ash from Mount Anak Krakatoa was identified in airspace surrounding Jakarta’s Soekarno-Hatta International Airport on Sunday morning.

The volcano began erupting late Friday night, producing sustained seismic activity, fountains of lava, and audible explosions throughout nearby regions. Two additional eruptive events occurred early Sunday morning, according to authorities.

Over 22,000 passengers have been affected by the flight cancellations, with the suspension remaining in effect until 13:30 local time (06:30 GMT).

The Ministry of Transport reported that the operational pause primarily impacted services to and from Singapore, along with other international destinations including Doha, Sydney, and Kuala Lumpur.

Authorities have confirmed that no tsunami warning has been issued in connection with the volcano’s recent activity. The volcanic island is located in the Sunda Strait, separating Java and Sumatra.

The Minister of Health has advised residents in impacted areas to remain indoors and use protective face masks to guard against respiratory, ocular, and dermatological hazards.

Anak Krakatoa, which translates to “Child of Krakatoa,” has experienced intermittent activity since emerging from the sea in the early 20th century within the caldera left by the catastrophic 1883 eruption of Mount Krakatoa.

Indonesia occupies a position along the Pacific Ring of Fire, a region characterized by significant volcanic and seismic activity.

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