Volcanic eruption suspends hundreds of flights at Indonesia’s main airport

A volcanic eruption near Indonesia’s capital suspended 209 flights and left more than 22,000 people affected after ash spread into airspace near Soekarno-Hatta International Airport.

Anak Krakatau began erupting late Friday night, producing continuous seismic activity, lava fountains and booming sounds across surrounding areas. Authorities reported two additional eruptions early Sunday and extended the flight suspension until 13:30 local time, or 06:30 GMT.

The disruption mainly affected flights to and from Singapore, as well as international services involving Doha, Sydney and Kuala Lumpur. The ash forced passengers to wait at Indonesia’s main international airport, while officials assessed conditions around Jakarta.

The health minister urged people in affected areas to remain indoors and wear face masks because volcanic ash can irritate the respiratory system, eyes and skin. Kompas reported that some schools cancelled activities after students and residents complained of irritated eyes. Some fishermen also cancelled trips and reported similar symptoms.

Resident Aldi Candra Prayogi told the newspaper that his eyes felt as if “small grains of sand had gotten into my eyes.” He said he needed eye drops and had to sweep the dust from his front yard every five minutes.

Authorities said there was no tsunami warning linked to the latest activity. Anak Krakatau, meaning Child of Krakatoa, emerged from the caldera formed after the 1883 eruption of Mount Krakatoa. The volcano collapsed in December 2018, triggering a tsunami that killed more than 400 people and displaced and injured thousands along the coasts of Sumatra and Java.

Indonesia lies on the Pacific Ring of Fire, an area known for frequent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions around the Pacific rim.

“

Small grains of sand had gotten into my eyes.