Indonesia’s Mount Anak Krakatau erupted on Sunday, September 6, 2026, sending volcanic ash across parts of western Indonesia and causing major disruption to air travel. Operations at Jakarta’s Soekarno-Hatta International Airport were temporarily suspended after ash was detected in the airport area, affecting hundreds of passengers and flight schedules.
209 Flights Cancelled at Soekarno-Hatta
According to Indonesia’s airport operator InJourney Airports, 209 scheduled flights were cancelled at Soekarno-Hatta between 1:30 a.m. and 9:30 a.m. local time. The cancellations included 160 domestic flights, 39 international flights and 10 cargo services.
The disruption affected thousands of travellers, with passengers facing cancellations, delays and rescheduling as authorities prioritised aviation safety.
The airport temporarily suspended operations because volcanic ash can pose serious risks to aircraft engines and other critical systems. Officials said flight operations would resume gradually depending on the ash situation and safety assessments.
Volcanic Ash Reaches High Altitudes
The eruption produced an ash plume that rose to around 15,000 metres (50,000 feet), spreading across parts of Java, Sumatra and surrounding areas. The ash also affected visibility and created health concerns in communities near the affected regions.
Authorities also reported disruptions beyond Jakarta. Several airports were closed or affected as the volcanic ash cloud moved across western Indonesia. Alternative airports were prepared to handle some domestic and international services while aviation authorities monitored conditions.
Passengers Face Major Travel Disruptions
Airlines were forced to cancel or reschedule flights because of the ash threat. International services were among those affected, with airlines prioritising passenger and aircraft safety.
Airport authorities activated passenger-service measures during the disruption, including providing food and refreshments and setting up support facilities to assist stranded travellers.
The eruption has also affected activities outside the aviation sector, with schools and fishing operations disrupted in some areas because of ash and related safety concerns.
Authorities Continue Monitoring Anak Krakatau
Mount Anak Krakatau, located in the Sunda Strait between Java and Sumatra, remains an active volcano. Authorities are closely monitoring its activity and the movement of volcanic ash.
There was no tsunami warning associated with Sunday’s eruption, according to current reports. Residents in affected areas have been advised to take precautions against ash exposure and follow official safety instructions.
The latest eruption once again highlights Indonesia’s vulnerability to volcanic activity and its potential impact on aviation, tourism and everyday life.
