Jakarta and three other airports extend shutdown to 7pm after Anak Krakatau eruption disrupts travel

Jakarta's key airport and three others extended their shutdown to 7pm on Monday after a volcanic eruption disrupted travel, leaving hundreds of thousands stranded, according to the transport ministry. Mount Anak Krakatau, located about 150 kilometers from the capital, erupted on Saturday, ejecting lava and a plume of volcanic ash.

Eight airports initially halted operations over the weekend following ash detection in their airspace, disrupting thousands of flights and causing over 270,000 passengers to be stranded. Italian tourist Michel Miegge, who was on holiday with his girlfriend, expressed frustration as their flight was canceled, leaving them uncertain about their plans.

French painter Carol Odile also mentioned her disappointment as her flight was delayed, anticipating a trip to Flores Island soon. At least four airports, including Jakarta's Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, extended their closure from this morning to 6pm local time. Volcanic ash continued to pose a threat on Monday, with the airport reporting nearly 30,000 passengers affected and more than 240 flights either canceled or delayed.

The geology agency warned that the threat of an eruption remains high, emphasizing the potential hazards from incandescent rocks, heavy ashfall, and lava flows.