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Why in News?
- The DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation) issued safety advisories as volcanic ash from Ethiopia’s Hayli Gubbi eruption is forecast to enter Indian airspace and potentially disrupt flight operations.
Location
- Located in the Afar Region of Ethiopia, near the Eritrea border.
- Part of the Erta Ale volcanic range in the East African Rift System.
Type of Volcano
- It is a shield volcano, meaning it has broad, gentle slopes formed by fluid basaltic lava.
- Contains a central crater and fissure-fed lava structures.
Eruption History
- Considered dormant for nearly 12,000 years (no confirmed Holocene eruptions).
- It erupted in November 2025, sending an ash plume up to around 14 km high.
- This was its first documented eruption in thousands of years.
Geological Significance
- Lies in the East African Rift, where the African and Arabian tectonic plates are pulling apart.
- This rifting causes intense volcanic and seismic activity.
- Hayli Gubbi helps scientists understand rift-related volcanism.
Impacts of the 2025 Eruption
- Ash covered nearby villages in Afar region, affecting livestock and grazing areas.
- Aviation disruptions occurred as ash drifted towards Yemen, Oman, India, and Pakistan.
- Shows how volcanic ash can travel long distances and impact multiple countries.
Why Volcanic Ash is Dangerous for Flights
- Volcanic ash contains sharp, glass-like particles.
- When sucked into aircraft engines, these particles melt at high temperatures, harden again, and can stick to engine parts.
- This can cause engine damage, power loss, and flight emergencies.
- Ash can also reduce visibility and damage aircraft surfaces.
Ash Movement Towards India
- The ash cloud first passed over Yemen and Oman.
- Entered India via western Rajasthan on Monday.
- Expected to move north-east, crossing:
- Central India
- Delhi
- Parts of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar
- Northeastern States like Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh
