Volcanic Eruption in Indonesia Grounds Flights, Stranding Tens of Thousands

Ash from the eruption of Anak Krakatau has brought air traffic at Jakarta’s Soekarno-Hatta International Airport to a halt, leaving more than 22,000 passengers stranded. Hundreds of domestic and international flights have been canceled or heavily delayed because conditions are considered unsafe for flying.

The volcano, about 150 kilometers from Jakarta, began erupting late Friday evening. The eruption produced continuing tremors, lava flows and clouds of ash, with the blasts heard from far away.

Indonesia’s Transport Ministry said flights to and from Singapore were particularly affected. Routes involving Doha, Sydney and Kuala Lumpur were also disrupted. The health minister urged residents in affected areas to remain indoors and wear masks to reduce the risk of respiratory, eye and skin problems.

Anak Krakatau, meaning “Child of Krakatoa,” stands in the Sunda Strait between Java and Sumatra. It formed in 1927 through underwater eruptions at the site of Krakatoa, which exploded in 1883. The volcano remains active and occasionally emits ash. Indonesia lies on the Pacific Ring of Fire, where shifting tectonic plates drive frequent volcanic activity and earthquakes.