Flights to and from Bali have been cancelled or diverted after the volcano finally erupted, nearly two months after it first started showing signs of dangerous activity.
Airlines including Jetstar have announced they are cancelling flights in light of the developments.
The latest Volcano Observatory Notice for Aviation alert said: “Eruption and ash emission is continuing.
“Best estimate of ash-cloud top is around 14,854 FT (4,642m) above sea level, may be higher than what can be observed clearly.
“Ash coud moving to west-southwest. Seismic activity is characterized by low frequency earthquakes.”
Jetstar Airways tok to Twitter to inform passengers of cancellations, and wrote: “Volcanic ash from #MountAgung disrupting #Bali flights – flights cancelled this evening; some of tomorrow’s flights delayed to allow for further assessment of flying conditions in the morning.
“We’ll contact affected customers directly via SMS & email to provide further updates.”
There are reports Qantas is also cancelling flights, although they have yet to confirm this.
Authorities have raised alert levels for a volcano on the Indonesian resort island of Bali after hundreds of small tremors stoked fears it could erupt for the first time in more than 50 years.
Virgin Australia wrote in a statement on their website: “Virgin Australia is closely monitoring activity at Mt Agung in Bali following a second confirmed eruption. The Agung Volcano Observatory aviation colour code is currently orange.
“Due to the increased volcanic ash we have delayed our two flights from Denpasar this evening as a precaution and to allow us to assess flying conditions. Flights are planned to continue as normal, unless otherwise advised.
“We encourage guests booked via travel agents or third parties to ensure Virgin Australia has your mobile number, should we need to contact you in the event of any changes. Guests with travel insurance are encouraged to check with their insurer about their individual circumstances.”
In a statement, Indonesia’s Disaster Mitigation Agency said: “Tourism in Bali is still safe, except in the danger (zone) around Mount Agung.
“There has not been an increase in seismic and volcanic acivity after the (Tuesday) eruption and until this afternoon.”