Krakatau volcano eruption: Volcanic ash forces suspension of over 300 flights at Jakarta's Soekarno-Hatta airport

Mount Anak Krakatau, an Indonesian volcano located between Java and Sumatra, erupted late on Friday, prompting authorities to suspend over 300 flights at Jakarta's Soekarno-Hatta International Airport on Sunday. The suspension, initially set for 9:30 am (local time) or 02:30 GMT, was later extended to 5:30 pm (1030 GMT). Over 22,000 people were affected by the disruption, primarily affecting international routes such as those to and from Singapore, Doha, Sydney, and Kuala Lumpur.

Volcanic ash was detected at altitudes of up to 20,000 feet on the Java side and up to 50,000 feet on the Sumatra side of the volcano. Indonesia's disaster mitigation agency, BNPB, advised residents to wear masks and eye protection, reduce outdoor activities, and exercise caution while driving due to reduced visibility. The eruption has been accompanied by continuous seismic activity, lava fountains, and booming sounds.

No immediate tsunami threat was reported, unlike the 2018 eruption that triggered a tsunami resulting in over 400 deaths. Anak Krakatau, also known as the Child of Krakatoa, emerged from the sea following the massive 1883 eruption.