SINGAPORE - Travelers planning to fly to Bali faced unexpected challenges as several flights between Singapore and the popular Indonesian island were canceled on November 13 following a significant volcanic eruption from Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki. The eruption generated a hazardous ash cloud reaching up to 9 kilometers in height, prompting airlines to take immediate action for passenger safety.

A spokesperson from Singapore Airlines (SIA) confirmed the cancellation of two flights between Singapore and Bali on November 12 and 13 due to the dangerous airborne ash. The airline has committed to assisting affected customers by rebooking alternative flights and continuously monitoring the situation for possible further adjustments.

This recent eruption adds to the growing concerns surrounding Mount Lewotobi's activity. Previously, on November 3, another powerful eruption tragically resulted in the loss of nine lives and forced over 15,000 residents from nearby villages to evacuate their homes as the threat increased.

Low-cost carrier Scoot, a subsidiary of Singapore Airlines, also announced cancellations and modifications for flights to Bali and Lombok. The airline reassured its passengers that they were being re-accommodated on alternate flights, with full refunds available for those who chose to cancel their travel plans entirely. The airline expressed sincere apologies for any disruptions caused.

In addition to Singapore Airlines, flights operated by three major Australian carriers – Jetstar, Qantas, and Virgin Australia – were not spared. Reports have indicated that flights scheduled for November 12 and 13 were grounded, leaving many travelers stranded. Virgin Australia alone canceled 10 flights to and from Bali, emphasizing that the safety of their guests and crew remains their top priority. The adverse volcanic conditions left them with no choice.

Jetstar also declared a travel alert, advising passengers that due to the unsafe conditions arising from the volcanic ash, all flights in and out of Bali would be either canceled or delayed until at least 9 am on November 14. The airline sought to keep customers informed, urging them to check their flight statuses online before heading to the airport.

As the situation develops, Jetstar hinted at the possibility of resuming limited flights between Australia and Bali if conditions improve. However, the unpredictability of volcanic activity raises concerns for the safety of air travel in the region.

Travelers affected by these cancellations are encouraged to stay in close contact with their airlines for real-time updates and support options, as the impact of the Mount Lewotobi eruption continues to ripple through the aviation community.

This incident not only underscores the volatile nature of the region's geological activity but also highlights the importance of staying informed when traveling to popular tourist destinations vulnerable to natural disasters. If you're planning to travel soon, be sure to keep an eye on the latest updates from airlines and travel advisories!