Ethiopian Volcanic Eruption Impacts Aviation

Volcanic Ash Advisory by DGCA - Key Points

1. Eruption Details:

   • Volcano: Hayli Gubbi in Ethiopia erupted after over 10,000 years.
   • Ash Dispersion: Ash clouds have reached countries such as Yemen, Oman, Pakistan, and parts of India, including Rajasthan.

2. DGCA Advisory:

   • Safety Measures: Indian airlines are instructed to avoid flying in ash-affected areas and adjust flight routing and planning.
   • Incident Reporting: Airlines must report any suspected ash encounters, especially regarding engine performance anomalies and cabin conditions.
   • Post-flight Inspections: Increased emphasis on conducting thorough inspections of engines and airframes for flights near affected regions.

3. Operational Adjustments:

   • Flight Impact: Some flights have been canceled or diverted, such as an IndiGo flight from Kannur to Abu Dhabi which was redirected to Ahmedabad.
   • Performance Monitoring: Airlines need to monitor engine performance, atmospheric changes, and cabin conditions continuously.
   • Weather and Satellite Data: Flight dispatchers must keep abreast of volcanic ash advisories and meteorological data.

4. ICAO Compliance:

   • Airlines must comply with guidance from the International Civil Aviation Organization regarding volcanic ash.
   • In the event of ash affecting an airport, operators are advised to conduct inspections of runways, taxiways, and aprons.

5. Operational Restrictions:

   • Airport operations may be restricted or suspended depending on the level of ash contamination.
   • Cleaning of affected areas must be completed before any resumption of operations.

6. Volcanic Ash Hazards:

   • Ash can cause significant damage to aircraft engines and structure (abrasive particles and sensor failures).
   • Eruptions release plumes reaching altitudes of approximately 14 km, raising serious safety concerns for flight operations.

Conclusion: The DGCA is taking proactive measures to ensure aviation safety in light of the hazardous volcanic ash from Ethiopia, emphasizing adherence to operational guidelines and thorough monitoring within the aviation sector.