Headline: Anak Krakatau Eruption Strands More Than 150,000 Air Passengers

Date: 6 September 2026

Tags: Indonesia, Volcano, Travel, Natural Disasters

Summary:

• More than 150,000 passengers have been stranded after Indonesia temporarily suspended operations at six airports.

• Jakarta’s Soekarno-Hatta International Airport closed after volcanic ash from Anak Krakatau was detected nearby.

• At least 467 flights have been affected, with airlines encouraged to divert services where possible.

• International routes involving Singapore, Doha, Sydney and Kuala Lumpur are among those disrupted.

• Anak Krakatau began erupting late Friday, producing seismic activity, lava fountains and further eruptions on Sunday.

• Volcanic ash reached approximately 50,000ft west of the volcano and 20,000ft over parts of Java.

• Authorities have issued no tsunami warning following the latest volcanic activity.

• Residents in affected areas have been advised to remain indoors and wear masks because of ash-related health risks.

• Some schools suspended activities, while residents and fishermen reported eye irritation caused by volcanic ash.

• Anak Krakatau previously collapsed in 2018, generating a tsunami that killed more than 400 people.

Why this matters: Volcanic ash poses significant aviation and health risks and could cause further disruption across one of Southeast Asia’s busiest travel regions.

What’s next: Authorities will monitor the eruption and ash cloud before reopening affected airports, while airlines manage cancellations, diversions and passenger refunds.