A powerful eruption of Indonesia's Anak Krakatau volcano has forced the temporary closure of eight airports across the country. Among those affected are Soekarno-Hatta and Halim Perdanakusuma, major airports serving the capital city of Jakarta, as well as airfields in Lampung Province.
In addition, all flights have been grounded in Bandung, Curug, South Tangerang, Pesisir Barat, and Pagar Alam.
The active phase of the natural disaster began on the evening of September 4, when the volcano started spewing massive fountains of lava and sent a column of ash and smoke rising over 15,000 meters into the air. The meteorological service noted that the loud roar of the eruption was heard up to 700 kilometers away. Fortunately, no casualties have been reported.
Such large-scale activity from Anak Krakatau poses a serious threat to regional aviation safety. The 15,000-meter ash plume can cause severe engine damage, compelling authorities to take swift, drastic action.
Although there are no reported casualties, widespread flight cancellations in the coming days could trigger major transportation disruptions for both domestic and international travel.
