Air India Delhi-Bali Flight Returns Mid-Air Due to Bali Volcano Eruption
New Delhi, June 18, 2025 — An Air India flight (AI2145) from Delhi to Bali made a mid-air return on Tuesday following reports of a volcanic eruption near Bali’s international airport. The airline confirmed that the decision was taken purely in the interest of passenger safety.
According to an Air India official,
“Air India flight AI2145 on June 18, 2025, from Delhi to Bali was advised to return to Delhi due to volcanic eruption near Bali’s destination airport. The flight landed safely, and all passengers were disembarked.”
Passenger Support Offered
To mitigate inconvenience, affected passengers were provided hotel accommodation, with full refunds or complimentary rescheduling options made available.
The official added,
“We sincerely regret the inconvenience. Every effort is being made to support passengers through rescheduling or refunds, as preferred.”
Volcano Disrupts International Travel
On the same day, multiple international flights to and from Bali were grounded after Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki, a 1,584-meter volcano located on Flores Island, erupted. The volcano sent an ash plume over 10 km into the sky, triggering aviation warnings across the region.
Affected airlines include:
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Jetstar
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Virgin Australia
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Air India
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Tigerair (Singapore)
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Juneyao Airlines (China)
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Air New Zealand
Safety Comes First
This disruption highlights the fragility of international aviation in the face of natural disasters. Indonesian authorities confirmed that Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport was operating under restricted conditions, leading to mass cancellations.
Travelers are advised to monitor airline notifications and check airport advisories before planning trips to Bali or nearby Indonesian islands.
FAQs:
Q1. Why did the Air India Delhi-Bali flight return mid-air?
The flight returned due to a volcanic eruption near Bali airport, which posed a risk to flight safety.
Q2. Was the flight cancelled or rescheduled?
The flight was air-returned and passengers were offered either full refunds or free rescheduling.
Q3. Which volcano erupted in Indonesia?
Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki on Flores Island erupted, releasing ash up to 10 km into the sky.
Q4. Are other airlines also affected by the eruption?
Yes, major airlines like Jetstar, Virgin Australia, Tigerair, and others have also cancelled flights to Bali.
Q5. Will Bali airport reopen soon?
The situation is being monitored by local authorities. Travelers should check with their airlines for the latest updates.
Q6. What support did Air India offer to affected passengers?
Air India provided hotel accommodation, refunds, and rescheduling options to all passengers of AI2145.
