In recent news, Pilotcenter.net News reports that major Australian airlines have begun to resume flights to Bali after a large ash cloud from the eruption of Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki started to dissipate. This eruption, ongoing since November 3, 2024, had previously led to the suspension of all flights to and from the island due to unsafe travel conditions caused by ash clouds affecting flight routes in the region.
As of November 14, 2024, the European Commission Emergency Response Coordination Centre reported that the volcanic ash had reached up to 3,000 meters above the crater, indicating continued eruptive activity with the volcano's alert status remaining at Level Four.
Initially, Qantas, Jetstar, AirAsia, and Virgin Australia had paused flights to Bali for safety reasons without a set date for resumption. However, the next day, all carriers announced the recommencement of certain flights, citing improved conditions. Qantas and Jetstar mentioned that they will be closely monitoring the situation to ensure customer safety and operational efficiency.
Virgin Australia also jumped into action by scheduling additional recovery flights to facilitate travel for affected passengers following earlier cancellations. The airline is set to resume all scheduled flights to and from Denpasar, Bali, starting November 16, 2024, with six flights connecting major Australian cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane to Bali.
These recent developments signal a positive turn of events for travelers to Bali as airlines work diligently to ensure safe and smooth operations amidst the volcanic activity.