Kannur–Abu Dhabi IndiGo flight diverted after Ethiopian volcano eruption

Ahmedabad: An IndiGo flight from Kannur to Abu Dhabi, flight 6E 1433, was diverted to Ahmedabad on Monday following the massive eruption of Ethiopia’s Hayli Gubbi volcano, the first eruption in nearly 10,000 years. The airline confirmed that the flight had safely landed in Ahmedabad and that return services to Kannur will be provided.

The eruption of Hayli Gubbi volcano on Sunday sent thick ash plumes up to nine miles (14 km) into the sky, prompting aviation authorities to monitor flight paths in northern India closely. The volcano, located in Ethiopia’s Afar region near the Eritrean border, erupted for several hours, raising concerns for flights over Delhi, Jaipur, and surrounding areas.

IndiGo stated that the diversion was a precautionary measure to ensure passenger safety amid volcanic ash reaching flight corridors. “Indigo 6E 1433 from Kannur to Abu Dhabi was diverted to Ahmedabad due to volcanic activity. The flight has now landed in Ahmedabad and Indigo will provide return service to Kannur,” a company spokesperson said.

Indian airlines and aviation authorities have been closely monitoring the situation.

Akasa Air also issued a travel advisory, stating on X, “We are closely monitoring the volcanic activity in Ethiopia and its potential impact on flight operations in nearby regions. Our teams will continue to assess the situation in compliance with international aviation advisories and safety protocols and take necessary actions as required. At Akasa Air, passenger safety and well-being is our utmost priority.”

Passengers travelling to or from northern India are advised to check with airlines for updated flight schedules, as authorities continue to assess the impact of the volcanic ash on air traffic.