Mount Anak Krakatau erupted starting late on Friday, September 4, 2026, continuing through early Sunday, September 6, producing volcanic ash that has disrupted air travel across Indonesia on Monday, September 7. More than 1,558 flights were initially reported delayed or cancelled, a figure that later rose above 2,300 flights. Approximately 270,000 passengers have been affected as volcanic ash spread across the airspace covering parts of Java and Sumatra.
Eight Airports Closed Following Volcanic Ash Spread
Eight Indonesian airports were temporarily closed on the morning of September 7 due to volcanic ash travel risks. These closures include major hubs such as Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Jakarta, which suffered
over 900 flight cancellations and delays. The affected regions encompass Banten, Jakarta, West Java, and areas of Sumatra, including Lampung and Bengkulu provinces. AirNav Indonesia closed airspace around the impacted airports as a precautionary measure, with ash plumes reaching heights between 20,000 feet (6,100 meters) and 50,000 feet (15,200 meters).
Passenger Disruptions and Travel Delays
Thousands of travelers remain stranded as airport closures and flight interruptions extend. Queues formed at affected airports with many passengers seeking alternate travel arrangements amid ongoing cancellations and delays. Over 270,000 passengers have been impacted to date. Flight schedules remain vulnerable to short-notice changes contingent on ash concentration and weather
conditions across the affected airspace.
Official Statements and Coordination Efforts
Indonesia’s Ministry of Transportation and Directorate General of Civil Aviation have been coordinating closely with airlines, airport operators, and aviation authorities to manage the situation. Lukman F. Laisa, director general of civil aviation, stated, “Safety remains our top priority in every operational decision.” The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysical Agency (BMKG) continues to monitor the volcanic ash plume and issue aviation warnings. Indonesia’s Geological Agency reported the eruptive episode lasted approximately 25 hours from late September 4 to early September 6, and the volcano remains at alert Level III (Siaga).
Ongoing Monitoring and Airspace Management
Airport closures are being reviewed continuously
rather than reopened on a fixed schedule, depending on ash dispersion and weather conditions. The volcanic ash originates from Anak Krakatau, situated in the Sunda Strait between Java and Sumatra islands, and poses significant hazard to aircraft engines and operations. Authorities maintain an exclusion zone around the volcano crater. Monitoring remains active to prevent further damage and ensure safety amid possible ongoing volcanic activity.
