Anak Krakatau Eruption Covers Parts of Jakarta in Volcanic Ash, Closes Main Airport

Volcanic ash from the Anak Krakatau eruption has covered parts of Jakarta, coating aircraft, vehicles and other surfaces in grey dust as the powerful eruption disrupts Indonesia’s capital and aviation operations.

Jakarta’s main international airport was closed after volcanic ash moved into the area, creating potentially dangerous conditions for aircraft and forcing disruptions to flight operations.

Volcanic Ash Spreads Across Jakarta

Anak Krakatau, located off the coast of Java, sent a large plume of ash toward the Indonesian capital following its latest eruption.

Images from the area showed layers of volcanic dust accumulating on exposed surfaces as the ash cloud spread across parts of the region.

Jakarta Airport Closed After Anak Krakatau Eruption

The arrival of volcanic ash prompted authorities to suspend operations at Jakarta’s main airport as aviation officials monitored conditions.

Volcanic ash poses a serious danger to aircraft because fine particles can enter jet engines, damage critical components and significantly reduce visibility for pilots.

Why Volcanic Ash Is Dangerous for Aircraft

Unlike ordinary clouds, volcanic ash contains extremely fine particles of rock and volcanic material that can cause severe engine and equipment damage.

Airlines and aviation authorities therefore avoid flying through known volcanic ash clouds, even when the ash is difficult to see from the ground.

Anak Krakatau Closely Monitored

Anak Krakatau — whose name means “Child of Krakatau” — remains one of Indonesia’s closely watched volcanoes.

Authorities continue monitoring the eruption and movement of the ash cloud as residents and travelers await further updates on aviation conditions around Jakarta.