The majority of flights in and out of Darwin have been cancelled today because of a volcanic eruption in Indonesia.
A spokesperson for Darwin Airport says all international and domestic Jetstar services, and all domestic Virgin and Qantas flights have been cancelled.
The Sangeang Api volcano, which is located off the north east coast of Sumbawa island, erupted yesterday evening.
The Bureau of Meteorology says it has caused a volcanic ash cloud that is moving in a south-easterly direction, affecting the Kimberley and Top End.
Virginia Sanders from Darwin International Airport says it is not known when flights will resume.
“At this stage it’s speculation but the airlines are getting their information from the volcanic ash advisory centre in Darwin,” she said.
“From what I can tell, as the ash moves it dissipates so it could be good news for tomorrow.
“But going on past experience, this is usually [a] 24-hour type event.”
In a statement on their website, Qantas says they are closely monitoring weather conditions and will release updates as they become available.
“Due to the overnight eruption of a volcano on the southern Indonesian island of Sangeang, volcanic ash plume has drifted over the Australian Northern Territory coastline,” the statement said.
“As a result, all Qantas flights to and from Darwin have been cancelled for Saturday 31 May 2014.”
Virgin Australia also released a travel alert, saying they will recommence normal operations as soon as the volcanic ash safely allows it.
“Our team of meteorologists are continuing to monitor the situation, in consultation with the Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre in Darwin,” the alert said.
Regional airline Air North is advising customers to check with the airline.
source: abc.net.au
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