Jetstar has cancelled multiple flights to and from Bali following the eruption of Mount Lewotobi in Indonesia, which sent ash soaring into the atmosphere. This decision was made as a precautionary measure to ensure passenger safety. The eruption occurred around midnight on Thursday, March 20, 2025, sending ash approximately 25,000 meters into the air, prompting warnings from authorities.
The Center for Volcanology and Geological Disaster Mitigation has advised that all activities should be avoided within a 7 km radius from the eruption site, specifically in the Southwest and Northeast sectors of the volcano. As a result, Jetstar has already cancelled six flights that were scheduled to return from Bali as of Friday, March 21, 2025.
In a statement, Jetstar emphasized that passenger safety is their top priority, stating, “At this stage, there is no impact to this afternoon’s scheduled flights. We continue to monitor the situation closely and will contact customers directly if there are any further changes to our schedule.” The airline encouraged passengers to check their flight statuses online before heading to the airport.
The eruption, which lasted approximately 11 minutes, did not result in any reported damage to nearby villages, but it left a significant ash cloud lingering over the region. Virgin Australia also reported potential disruptions, as their meteorologists continue to monitor the ash cloud's movement. They noted that at least two of their flights headed to Bali may be affected depending on the ash cloud's trajectory.
“Safety is our top priority, and based on the current forecast we expect some delays to Bali services today,” a spokesperson for Virgin Australia commented, advising travelers to stay updated on their flight information via the airline’s website and app.
As for Qantas, the airline has not yet reported any flight disruptions related to the volcanic activity. However, vigilance remains as the situation develops, ensuring that flights operate safely as conditions allow.
Mount Lewotobi Laki, located about 1,330 km from Bali, is no stranger to eruptions. In fact, it last erupted in November 2024, resulting in tragic outcomes, including the loss of nine lives and the cancellation of several international flights to Bali, as well as mass evacuations.
The volcanic activity has raised concerns among local officials and the tourism sector, as Bali remains a popular destination for tourists worldwide. The continuing eruptions pose a risk not only to air travel but also to the safety of local residents and tourists alike.
“The community around Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki and visitors/tourists should not carry out any activities within a radius of 7 km and 8 km in the Southwest and Northeast sectors of the eruption center of Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki,” the Center for Volcanology communicated. This warning highlights the seriousness of the situation, urging all to adhere to these safety measures.
Travelers planning to visit Bali are encouraged to stay informed of the latest developments regarding flight schedules and potential disruptions caused by volcanic activity. Jetstar, Virgin Australia, and other airlines will continue to provide updates as they assess the safety of their flight operations amidst the ongoing situation.
Meanwhile, the eruption of Mount Lewotobi serves as a stark reminder of nature’s unpredictability and the importance of emergency preparedness in the face of geological hazards. It is crucial for passengers and communities alike to heed warnings from authorities and make informed decisions regarding travel during such unpredictable events.
In summary, while six Jetstar flights have been cancelled due to volcanic ash from Mount Lewotobi's eruption, airlines are monitoring the situation closely. The focus remains on maintaining high safety standards for travelers heading to and from Bali as the region navigates the challenges posed by the evolving volcanic activity.
