An eruption of Anak Krakatau volcano caused widespread flight disruptions across Indonesia, leaving travelers stranded and airports struggling to resume normal operations, according to detikTravel and other Indonesian news outlets.
Comedian Raditya Dika was among those affected, nearly embarking on an unintended trip around the world due to the eruption, detikTravel reported. The volcano's activity forced the closure of airspace and grounded flights, creating chaos for passengers at major hubs.
Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Jakarta began recovering but still faced delays and cancellations, Kompas.com reported. Passengers described long waits at the airport as authorities worked to clear backlogs, according to detikNews.
Central Java's provincial government said it was ready to welcome participants of the 2026 MTQ National Quran Recitation Competition once flights resumed, as reported by PPID Jateng. The reopening of air travel marked a step toward normalcy, though disruptions persisted.
Travelers who booked tickets through travel agencies encountered significant hurdles seeking refunds, kumparan.com reported. The issue added to the frustration of those whose plans were upended by the eruption.
The Anak Krakatau eruption highlights how a single natural event can ripple through Indonesia's aviation network, affecting thousands of passengers. The volcano, located in the Sunda Strait between Java and Sumatra, has a history of major eruptions, including the 2018 event that triggered a deadly tsunami.
As airlines and airports work through the backlog, passengers are advised to check flight status regularly and contact their booking agents directly for refund issues. The situation remains fluid, with authorities monitoring volcanic activity closely for further developments.
