**Flights Suspended at Indonesia's Main Airport Due to Volcanic Eruption**
**By Nathan Rennolds**
**Published on 06/09/2026 - 9:12 GMT+2**
Soekarno–Hatta International Airport, Indonesia's main airport located near Jakarta, has suspended flight operations following the eruption of Mount Anak Krakatoa. The decision to halt flights was made early Sunday morning after volcanic ash was detected in the airspace surrounding the airport.
The eruption of Anak Krakatoa, an active volcano situated in the Sunda Strait between the islands of Java and Sumatra, began on Saturday. Residents across various regions reported experiencing "booming sounds and tremors" as the volcano produced a significant lava fountain, according to Indonesia's geology agency.
Flight operations were suspended at 1:30 am local time on Sunday, with the closure initially set to last until 9:30 am (0230 GMT). The Indonesian transport ministry confirmed that the airport's closure was necessary due to the positive results from recent air quality tests indicating the presence of volcanic ash in the vicinity.
The suspension of flights has had a considerable impact on travelers, with over 22,000 passengers affected and 209 flights canceled or delayed. Major routes to and from Singapore have been particularly impacted, along with flights to other international destinations such as Doha, Sydney, and Kuala Lumpur. Additionally, local airport authorities reported that at least 16 domestic flights to Bali were also canceled.
Authorities are closely monitoring the situation as the volcanic activity continues. The eruption of Anak Krakatoa is part of Indonesia's ongoing geological activity, given the country's location on the Pacific Ring of Fire, where tectonic plate movements frequently lead to volcanic eruptions and earthquakes.
As the situation develops, officials are advising travelers to stay informed about flight statuses and potential changes to airport operations. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
This incident highlights the ongoing challenges posed by natural phenomena in Indonesia, where volcanic eruptions can significantly disrupt air travel and impact the lives of thousands of residents and visitors.