- Five major Indonesian airports reopened past midnight on 8 September 2026
- Nearly 3,000 flights grounded over two-day closure period
- More than 340,000 travellers left stranded across the region
- Approximately 178 aircraft at Jakarta require safety inspections
- Transport Minister mandated 100pc ticket refunds or free rebookings
Indonesia has reopened five major airports, including Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Jakarta, after a two-day closure triggered by Mount Anak Krakatau eruption. The reopening past midnight on 8 September 2026 follows extensive efforts by aviation authorities to clear volcanic ash from critical infrastructure.
The eruption began late on Friday and sent massive ash clouds into the atmosphere, directly threatening regional airspace. Nearly 3,000 flights were grounded or cancelled over the two-day period, leaving more than 340,000 travellers stranded across the region. Authorities grounded aircraft because volcanic particles can severely damage jet engines and critical flight systems.
Flights are slowly resuming, though officials warn a return to normal schedules will be gradual. Airlines must inspect approximately 178 aircraft grounded at Jakarta to ensure airworthiness. Ten alternative airports have been designated to handle flight rotations. The Transport Minister has mandated 100pc ticket refunds or free rebookings for affected passengers.
Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi shared: “Flight schedules would return to normal gradually as airlines conduct safety checks on aircraft affected by the disruption.”
