29 Jun 2018 | 09:43 AM UTC
Indonesia: Flight disruptions in Bali and East Java June 29 /update 2
Flight disruptions in Bali and East Java June 29 due to the eruption of Mount Agung; residual disruptions likely despite airports reopening
Event
Flight disruptions continued in Bali and East Java on Friday, June 29, following the eruption of Mount Agung. Operations at Bali's Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) resumed on Friday afternoon (local time) after having been suspended earlier in the day. In East Java, Banyuwangi-Blimbingsari (BWX) and Noto Jember-Notohadinegoro (JBB) airports were scheduled to reopen at 17:00. Residual disruptions are likely in the coming hours. Additional flight delays and cancelations are possible in the coming days if volcanic activity intensifies.
An evacuation order for areas within a 4-km (2.5-mi) radius of the volcano remains in place and authorities continue to advise individuals in the area to wear masks to protect themselves from toxic particles in the air.
Context
Located on the Pacific Ring of Fire, Indonesia is exposed to a permanent risk of volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, and tsunamis. Mount Agung's last major eruption occurred in 1963 and resulted in the deaths of around 1500 people. A November 2017 eruption forced the closure of DPS for several days.
Advice
Individuals present in Indonesia are advised to keep abreast of the situation, adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities, and confirm flight reservations.