As a result of the ash cloud drifting west, Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport was severely affected. Over 30 flights were cancelled or delayed, including several international routes. The following airlines were impacted:
- Singapore Airlines & Scoot – Flights between Singapore and Bali suspended temporarily
- Jetstar & Virgin Australia – Cancelled multiple services from Australia
- Air India – One flight returned to Delhi mid-flight
- Air New Zealand & TigerAir – Delays and rescheduling pending airspace clearance
Bali, one of Southeast Asia’s most popular tourist destinations, was expected to receive tens of thousands of passengers this week, many now stranded or forced to reroute.
Government and Airline Advisories
Indonesia’s Centre for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG) continues to monitor seismic activity. Airlines and airport authorities have issued the following travel advice:
- Check flight status regularly
- Allow extra time at the airport
- Be prepared for sudden schedule changes
- Use N95 or FFP2 face masks when outside due to ash inhalation risk
- Avoid outdoor activity within the affected zone
The Maumere (Seda) Airport on Flores Island has been temporarily closed.
Volcano Impact on Tourism and Local Economy
The eruption of Mount Lewotobi is the most disruptive natural event in the region since Mount Agung’s activity in 2017. Local businesses, especially those in tourism, are bracing for losses due to flight cancellations and diverted tourist flows.
Hotels in Bali are offering extended stays or discounted rates for stranded visitors. However, with the eruption potentially ongoing, travellers are urged to delay non-essential travel to the area.
What Happens Next?
Experts from PVMBG warn that aftershocks or further eruptions are possible in the coming days. Weather patterns will also influence ash dispersion, which could continue to affect regional air travel into the weekend.
Indonesia is home to over 120 active volcanoes, and while volcanic activity is common, eruptions of this magnitude are rare and taken very seriously by authorities.
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