Delhi on Edge as Ethiopia Volcano Ash Approaches; Visibility, Flights and AQI Maybe in Danger

Hayli Gubbi, located in Ethiopia’s Afar region, erupted on Sunday for the first time in nearly 10,000–12,000 years, producing hours of explosive activity and generating the massive ash cloud that has now travelled thousands of kilometres across Asia and Africa.

At least seven international flights were cancelled and more than ten were delayed at Delhi’s IGI Airport on Tuesday after ash plumes from the Hayli Gubbi volcanic eruption in Ethiopia drifted into the surrounding airspace. Airlines scrambled to alter flight paths as safety protocols require engines to avoid volcanic ash due to the risk of sudden power loss and system damage.

Air India cancelled 13 international services since Monday as a precaution after volcanic ash was detected along key Middle East and European routes. The airline said it is monitoring the advisory bulletins and remains in constant touch with its operating crew to prevent aircraft from entering ash-affected corridors.

Multiple carriers including IndiGo, Akasa Air cancelled or rerouted flights on Monday and Tuesday, with some aircraft diverted mid-air to safer corridors. IndiGo assured passengers that safety remains the highest priority while its teams track global aviation advisories round the clock.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) instructed all airlines to strictly avoid ash-affected areas and adjust flight planning, routing and fuel requirements. Operators have also been asked to immediately report suspected ash encounters and inspect runways if ash contamination affects airport operations.

Volcanic ash contains microscopic silica and abrasive rock fragments that can melt inside jet engines, clog fuel nozzles and cause sudden flameout. Even short-term exposure can damage cockpit windshields, sensors and avionics, making avoidance the only safe strategy for aviation.

Delhi recorded an AQI of 360 on Tuesday morning, with pockets like Rohini touching the ‘severe’ category. While volcanic ash travelled at high altitudes, experts warn that it may enhance haze and visibility issues temporarily amid an already polluted atmosphere.

The ash plume from Ethiopia’s Hayli Gubbi volcano rose nearly 14 km (45,000 ft) into the atmosphere and was carried by high-level winds across the Red Sea into Yemen and Oman before reaching the Arabian Sea, Gujarat and ultimately Delhi-NCR, Rajasthan, Punjab and Haryana.

According to the India Meteorological Department, the volcanic ash cloud is drifting eastwards and will move away from India by Tuesday evening. Forecast models had indicated temporary influence over western and north Indian regions, especially Gujarat and Delhi-NCR.

Officials expect temporary disruptions to persist as carriers track the plume’s movement and adjust route lengths and cruise levels. Airlines said they are prepared for detours, possible longer travel times and holding patterns to ensure safe, uninterrupted operations for passengers.