The plume reached Delhi around 11 pm on Monday before drifting over Gujarat, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Punjab and Haryana. By Tuesday morning, the cloud continued moving eastward, causing widespread disruption across air routes in northern and western India. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) issued an urgent advisory instructing airlines to avoid ash-affected airspace, adjust flight plans, alter routing and fuel calculations, and follow enhanced safety protocols.

Several flights have been hit as a result. Air India cancelled at least 11 flights across domestic and international routes and has begun precautionary technical inspections on aircraft that may have travelled through or near the affected zones. Akasa Air also cancelled multiple services, including flights to and from Jeddah, Kuwait and Abu Dhabi.

According to the India Meteorological Department, the ash cloud is expected to leave Indian airspace by around 7:30 pm IST on Tuesday as it continues its eastward movement toward China. Meteorologists have stated that the ash remains at high altitude, and therefore, a significant deterioration in surface-level air quality is not anticipated at present.

The incident highlights how a volcanic eruption thousands of kilometres away can disrupt global aviation movement within hours. Travellers flying to, from, or through north Indian cities have been advised to monitor airline notifications and stay updated regarding possible delays or cancellations.

Authorities are continuing to monitor the movement of the ash cloud closely, while airlines plan alternative routes until Indian skies are clear.

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The Hayli Gubbi volcano, located in Ethiopia’s Afar region almost 800 km northeast of Addis Ababa, erupted for several hours on November 23, 2025. Ash shot high into the atmosphere and drifted westward toward the Arabian Sea before shifting in the direction of India. Experts warned that the Ethiopia Volcano Ash Cloud Threatens India due to its reach and density.

The DGCA issued strong advisories for airlines. Officials told pilots to avoid affected altitudes because volcanic ash contains abrasive, glass-like particles. These particles can melt inside engines, form a hard coating, and damage turbine blades. Aviation teams remain alert to protect passengers and aircraft from risk.

Meteorologists continue to track the ash movement. They expect the cloud to thin out soon, giving relief to pilots and travellers. Authorities will update guidelines as the situation evolves.

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