November 13, 2024 8:57 PM.
Several flights between Australia and the popular Indonesian province of Bali have been grounded after an erupting volcano sent a column of hot ash miles into the sky.
Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki, on the remote island of Flores in Indonesia’s East Nusa Tenggara province, has been active since a series of eruptions last week killed at least 10 people, covering towns and villages in volcanic ash and forcing tens of thousands of residents to flee.
Australia’s three biggest airlines-Qantas, Virgin Australia, and Jetstar-grounded more than a dozen flights scheduled to arrive or depart from Denpasar Airport in Bali today, leaving hundreds of passengers stranded as the volcanic ash cloud posed a safety threat.
The airlines, in their statements, said they are monitoring the situation closely and will provide an update on flight schedules as soon as possible.
Bali is one of the most popular international holiday destinations for Australians.