Volcanic eruption halts flights at Indonesia's main airport

An eruption of the Anak Krakatoa volcano in Indonesia has disrupted hundreds of flights at the country's main international airport, leaving tens of thousands of passengers stranded.

Authorities said 209 flights were suspended after volcanic ash was detected in the airspace near Jakarta's Soekarno-Hatta International Airport on Sunday morning. The volcano began erupting late on Friday night, producing continuous seismic activity, lava fountains and loud booming sounds across nearby regions. Two additional eruptions occurred early on Sunday.

More than 22,000 people have been affected by the flight suspension, which has been extended until 13:30 local time (06:30 GMT). The transport ministry said flights to and from Singapore were among the most affected, along with other international routes including Doha, Sydney and Kuala Lumpur.

No tsunami risk

Officials have confirmed there is no tsunami warning connected to the volcano's recent activity. Anak Krakatoa is located in the Sunda Strait, between the islands of Java and Sumatra.

The health minister has advised residents in affected areas to remain indoors and wear face masks to reduce risks to their respiratory system, eyes and skin from the ash.

Anak Krakatoa, meaning "Child of Krakatoa," has erupted sporadically since it first emerged from the sea in the early 20th century, within the caldera left by the 1883 eruption of Krakatoa. Indonesia lies on the Pacific Ring of Fire, an area of intense volcanic and seismic activity.