The effects of the explosion that occurred on November 23 in Ethiopia’s Hayli Gubbi volcano were visible even in India. These volcanic ashes raised by strong winds have reached the Indian airspace via Oman and the Arabian Sea. DGCA and Met Watch Office of Mumbai-Delhi have issued SIGMET i.e. Significant Weather Advisory for airlines. Aviation officials have warned that this ash can pose a threat to high altitude flights, so special caution should be taken on the route and flight level.
There was a sudden explosion in Ethiopia’s Hayli Gubbi volcano. As soon as the explosion occurred, a large amount of volcanic ash rose several kilometers into the sky from the mountain. This ash flows with the wind and directly affects the air roots. Ash rose from Ethiopia and the ash cloud reached a height of about 30,000–35,000 feet. The wind direction was towards Gulf Countries, hence a large part of the ash kept flying in the direction of Oman and Arabian Sea. On 24 November, this ash reached over India, that is, the wind pulled the ash and brought it over India through the Arabian Sea. This ash is passing through the air-routes of Maharashtra, Gujarat, Rajasthan and Central India.
Why was the aviation advisory issued?
Volcanic Ash is very dangerous for aircraft, because it can cause the engine to stop. Ash gets into the engine and melts and can cause blockage. Windshield and sensors get damaged. The ash wears out the glass, making it difficult for the pilot to see. The airframe of the aircraft is damaged. It is not clearly visible on radar, so the danger may increase suddenly. In view of such situation, Met Watch Office of Mumbai and Delhi has issued Significant Meteorological Information (SIGMET).
What are DGCA/ATC doing?
Airlines have been asked to change routes, change altitude (stay away from FL250–FL350) and reduce operations in the affected areas. The routes of some flights have been lengthened to avoid ash patches. A volcano erupted in Ethiopia and its smoke rose into the air and dragged it to Oman and the Arabian Sea. Within a few hours the smoke reached the air over India. The layer in which airplanes fly – 30,000–35,000 feet, has ash floating in it. To avoid damage to the engine, DGCA alerted all the airlines and SIGMET was issued.
Also read: Ethiopia Volcano: Eruption in Ethiopia’s volcano! Dangerous ash cloud rises in the air, DGCA issues strict warning