November 13th 2024.
Experts are warning that the ongoing disruptions caused by the volcanic ash cloud in Indonesia may extend into the upcoming week. Multiple flights from various airlines have been cancelled for a second consecutive day, leaving many travelers stranded as they try to make their way between Bali and Australia.
According to volcano experts interviewed by 9News, while the eruptions from Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki have decreased in intensity, there is still a possibility of another eruption occurring, potentially causing more travel chaos next week. This news comes as the state opposition calls for mandatory drug testing for all MPs.
The towering columns of hot ash from the volcano have created a safety hazard for planes, resulting in Qantas, Jetstar, Virgin Australia, and AirAsia grounding flights to and from Denpasar Airport. Some airlines are offering refunds to affected passengers, while others are rescheduling flights to accommodate the disruptions.
Jetstar has announced that flights will be cancelled until at least midday tomorrow, citing safety concerns as the reason for the decision. They have also stated that impacted customers will be notified directly and given a range of options to choose from. In preparation for potential ongoing disruptions, customers with bookings through Sunday can rebook or cancel their flights.
In an effort to clear the backlog of passengers stuck on the island, Jetstar has also announced plans to add extra flights using larger aircraft at some point. This follows a major eruption last week that resulted in 10 fatalities and the evacuation of 15,000 residents.
Meanwhile, Virgin Australia has cancelled 10 flights today and has decided to delay tomorrow's flights to and from Bali. Affected passengers will be contacted by the airline and given alternative options. Passengers with bookings through Saturday can also rebook for a later date within the next two weeks or receive a refund.
In a statement, Virgin Australia emphasized that the safety of their guests and crew is their top priority. AirAsia has also cancelled four flights from Perth to Bali today, but has rescheduled one service for tomorrow. A return service between Cairns and Bali was also cancelled due to the fluid situation.
Passengers affected by these cancellations have been notified via email and SMS and provided with options such as free flight changes within 30 days, a full credit account with a two-year validity, or a full refund. Qantas has also delayed three flights between Sydney and Bali for 24 hours, with the new departure time set for tomorrow evening.
Other airlines that do not fly the route between Bali and Australia have also cancelled flights to and from Indonesia, including Air New Zealand. Until the volcanic ash cloud dissipates, passengers are left in limbo and are advised to check their flight status online before heading to the airport. Meteorologists are closely monitoring the situation.
The Insurance Council of Australia has also weighed in, advising affected passengers to contact their travel insurance provider to see if they are eligible to make a claim. According to a spokeswoman, policies purchased before the volcanic event occurred should cover any financial losses, but those purchased after the eruption are unlikely to provide coverage. For the latest updates on the situation, download the 9News app on the Apple App Store or Google Play.
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