Air India Flight to Bali Returns Mid-Air After Volcano Eruption
An Air India flight bound for Bali was forced to turn back mid-air and return to Delhi on June 18 following a volcanic eruption near Bali’s airport—highlighting the importance of prioritizing passenger safety during sudden natural disasters.
Volcanic disruption
Indonesia’s Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki erupted on Tuesday, shooting ash clouds up to 10,000 meters into the atmosphere and prompting a red alert across airspace in East Nusa Tenggara. As the ash plume drifted toward key flight corridors, aviation authorities suspended operations at Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport and other regional airfields.
Flight diversion
Air India flight AI2145, en route from Delhi to Bali, was redirected mid-air for safety reasons. The aircraft landed safely back in Delhi’s IGI Airport, and all passengers were unharmed. The flight had been well into its journey when it received the diversion order—demonstrating quick coordination between the airline and aviation regulators.
Passenger care
Air India promptly arranged hotel accommodations for affected travelers and offered full refunds or complimentary rescheduling. Passengers expressed relief at the airline’s swift response and clear communication, describing the experience as inconvenient yet managed with calm professionalism.
Wider aviation impact
The eruption triggered disruptions across multiple international carriers. Airlines including Jetstar, Air New Zealand, and others operating between Bali and destinations in Australia, India, Singapore, and China were forced to cancel, delay, or reroute flights. Volcanic ash, known to damage aircraft engines, remains a serious threat even at high altitudes, making such precautions essential.
Monitoring and outlook
The Indonesian Geology Agency has expanded the exclusion zone to an 8 km radius around the volcano and continues to monitor the eruption. Officials anticipate lightning storms and ashfall in surrounding villages, prompting evacuations. Airspace closures are expected to remain in place until the ash dissipates and travel safety can be assured.
