World News | Volcanic Ash from Ethiopia Forces Akasa Air to Cancel Gulf Flights

Akasa Air has cancelled its international flights to and from Jeddah, Kuwait, and Abu Dhabi for November 24 and 25, 2025, following a massive volcanic ash plume from recent activity in Ethiopia. The ash cloud, originating from Ethiopia's Hauli Gubbi volcano, created unsafe flying conditions across critical flight corridors linking India and the Gulf region, prompting widespread operational disruptions for several carriers.

The Hauli Gubbi volcano erupted for the first time in over 10,000 years, propelling ash nearly 45,000 feet into the atmosphere. This high-altitude plume traveled northeast at speeds of 100-120 kmph, quickly nearing Indian routes and impacting air traffic across parts of northwest India, including Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Delhi-NCR, and Punjab. In addition to Akasa Air, IndiGo also suspended services and diverted its Kannur-Abu Dhabi flight (6E1433) to Ahmedabad as a precautionary measure, while KLM and other airlines remained on high alert.

India's Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) responded by issuing an advisory, urging airlines and airports to prepare for operational challenges and closely monitor real-time weather and volcanic updates. Akasa Air confirmed passengers affected by the cancellations were offered either a full refund or complimentary rebooking within seven days, emphasizing that passenger safety remains its utmost priority. The India Meteorological Department noted that while the ash cloud was positioned over 10 km above ground, any impact over Indian cities would likely be short-lived as the plume continued its swift eastward movement.