Kochi: Flight services from Kochi airport are expected to remain disrupted today as the massive eruption of the Hayli Gubbi volcano in Ethiopia continues to affect air routes. The eruption, which is said to be the first in about twelve thousand years, sent a huge ash plume into the sky, drifting across the Red Sea and moving towards different regions in India.

Several flights from Kochi to Gulf destinations, including Dubai and Jeddah, were cancelled as a precaution. Airlines are monitoring the movement of volcanic ash, which can damage aircraft engines and pose risks to flight safety.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation has issued an advisory to all airlines, asking them to avoid the affected air space. Officials noted that volcanic ash clouds can impact visibility and may even settle on airport areas like runways and aprons, requiring inspection before clearing flights.

Reports indicate that the ash plume has reached heights of around forty five thousand feet and is slowly drifting towards western and northern parts of India. This has led to delays and diversions on several international routes, especially flights connecting India with Gulf countries.

Airport authorities in Kochi have advised passengers to check the latest updates from their airlines before heading to the airport. They also said that the situation may change through the day, depending on the movement of the ash cloud.

Airlines such as IndiGo and Akasa Air have rerouted or delayed some flights, while Air India has said it has not yet faced major disruptions but is closely observing developments.

Passengers are expected to experience delays until conditions improve and authorities confirm that the air routes are safe.