Indonesia: Flight disruptions due to haze September 16 /update 3

Event

As of Monday, September 16, severe flight disruptions have been reported in Riau and Jambi provinces (Sumatra island) as well as in all Eastern and Western Kalimantan provinces (Borneo island) since Friday, September 13, as visibility dropped below 300 m (0.19 mi) due to hazy conditions (dust, smoke, and vapor) caused by large-scale forest and agricultural fires ongoing in Sumatra and Borneo islands. Significant delays, detours, and cancelations have been reported at Seppinggan Airport (BPN) (Wesern Kalimantan), as well as in Supadio Airport (PNK) and Putussibau Airport (PSU) (Eastern Kalimantan) as of Monday. Additional flight delays and cancellations are possible in the coming days.

Air quality has dropped to hazardous levels across Jambi, Riau, and all Kalimantan provinces, reaching a peak in the city of Palangka Raya (Central Kalimantan) on Sunday, September 15, with an Air Pollution Index (API) of 500; schools were ordered to remain closed for the week in the cities of Palangka Raya and Sampit.

The ASEAN Specialized Meteorological Center (ASMC) has forecasted that hazy conditions in the region can be expected to continue in the coming days with fires in Sumatra and Borneo islands persisting under the prevailing dry weather.

Context

Indonesia frequently experiences air pollution (haze) caused by forest fires between June to October. An API reading of 0-50 is considered good, 51-100 moderate, and 101-200 unhealthy.

Advice

Individuals present in Indonesia are advised to monitor Air Pollutant Index Management System (APIMS) updates and health advisories issued by the Indonesian Department of Environment. Seek medical assistance if needed and confirm flight reservations.