IndiGo and Air India announced on Wednesday that flights to and from Bali have been cancelled due to ash clouds following a volcanic eruption on the Indonesian island. The disruption has left many travelers stranded as airlines halted services to Bali.

The recent eruption of Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki, located in East Nusa Tenggara province, produced heavy ash clouds that pose risks to air travel. IndiGo shared a travel advisory on social media, stating, “Due to a recent volcanic eruption in Bali, flights to/from the region have been cancelled, as ash clouds may impact air travel.”

Air India has also cancelled its flights from Delhi to Bali scheduled for November 13, 2024. The airline assured passengers of options for complimentary rescheduling, alternative flights, or full refunds, emphasizing that passenger and crew safety is the top priority.

Mount Lewotobi’s eruption impacted at least 16 international routes, with Bali’s airport confirming that 26 domestic and 64 international flights were disrupted. Affected passengers are being offered options for refunds, rescheduling, or re-routing.

The eruption has led to the evacuation of over 11,000 people and claimed nine lives in recent weeks, as the volcano’s ash clouds continue to pose risks, particularly to aviation safety. Fine volcanic ash can severely damage jet engines and affect visibility by scouring aircraft windscreens.