Indonesia closes seven airports as Anak Krakatau ash reaches 15 km

September 7, 2026 at 03:06 PM1 min

This digest was compiled by AI from multiple sources — links to the originals are below.

Indonesia closed seven airports, including Jakarta's two main hubs, after Anak Krakatau erupted and sent an ash column 15 km high. More than 2,300 flights were cancelled or delayed, affecting over 270,000 passengers. Authorities declared an alert and moved schools in Jakarta and Lampung to remote learning.

Key Facts

Seven Indonesian airports, including Jakarta's Soekarno-Hatta, suspended operations due to volcanic ash from Anak Krakatau.
More than 2,300 flights were cancelled or delayed, affecting over 270,000 passengers.
The ash column reached 15 km (50,000 feet) after the eruption began on Friday.
Schools in Jakarta and Lampung switched to remote learning under a health alert.
Seismologists say the probability of further eruptions remains high.

Airport Closures

Indonesia's Ministry of Transport closed Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Jakarta and six other airports for safety reasons until weather conditions stabilize. The closures include the capital's two main air hubs, disrupting domestic and international travel. Volcanic ash from Anak Krakatau covered Jakarta and surrounding provinces, forcing the suspension of flights. More than 2,300 flights were cancelled or delayed, leaving over 270,000 passengers stranded.

Eruption and Ash Hazard

Anak Krakatau, located in the Sunda Strait between Java and Sumatra, began erupting on Friday. The eruption produced an ash column up to 15 km (50,000 feet) high, according to seismologists. Volcanic ash contains silicon dioxide and sulfur, which can cause aircraft engine failure. Authorities declared an alert, advising residents to wear protective masks outdoors.

Public Health Measures

Educational institutions in Jakarta and Lampung were temporarily switched to remote learning due to health risks from ash exposure. The alert level remains high as seismologists warn of possible further eruptions from the volcano, part of the Pacific Ring of Fire.