Sky Drama: Air India Jet Returns to Delhi After Volcanic Eruption in Indonesia

On June 18, 2025, Air India Flight AI2145, en route from Delhi to Bali, was advised mid-flight to return to Delhi due to a volcanic eruption near Bali’s airport. Indonesian authorities had raised the volcano alert to its highest level after Mount Lewotobi Laki‑Laki spewed ash and smoke up to 10 km into the atmosphere

Flight & Safety Details

• Safety Concern: Volcanic ash poses threats to aircraft engines and visibility, making the air route unsafe
• Safe Landing: The plane landed smoothly back at Delhi IGI Airport, and all passengers disembarked safely

Passenger Support

Air India promptly arranged:

• Hotel accommodations for all affected passengers
• Full refunds or complimentary rerouting/rescheduling options

Mount Lewotobi Laki‑Laki

• Eruptions from the twin volcano sent ash plumes up to 10 km high, visible as far as 150 km away
• The volcano’s alert level was raised to maximum, with an 8 km evacuation zone established around the crater
• Travel chaos ensued: flights from Bali and nearby Labuan Bajo were cancelled or delayed by airlines like Jetstar, Air New Zealand, and Singapore Airlines