Mount Ruang Eruption Forces Lion Air Group to Cancel 27 Flights

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Lion Air Group canceled a total of 27 flights from and to Sam Ratulangi Airport in Manado, North Sulawesi, due to the Mount Ruang eruption on April 18.

Corporate Communications Strategic of Lion Group, Danang Mandala Prihantoro, stated that his office had informed all passengers regarding the cancellation due to the Ruang volcano eruption. He ensured that Lion Group would accommodate the requests of affected passengers regarding the change of flight schedules.

The canceled schedules include flights in big cities such as Jakarta, Surabaya, and Makassar. "As well as some other cities which include Ambon, Gorontalo, Kao, and Ternate," he said in a written statement on Saturday, April 20.

He said that safety aspects forced the Lion Air Group to cancel flights on several routes from and to Sam Ratulangi Airport. His side continues to communicate with airport authorities and follows up on the situation. "Flight operation will return to normal once the airport is declared safe and meets flight safety standard requirements."

According to Danang, volcanic ash from the Ruang volcano eruption can affect flight safety as it can scratch aircraft surfaces, including the cockpit windshield and wings. In addition, volcanic ash in the atmosphere can significantly reduce visibility, which is dangerous during takeoff or landing.

"It can interfere with the aerodynamics of the aircraft," he said. Volcanic ash also causes engine damage, which disrupts airflow and engine efficiency. Under certain conditions, it can cause the aircraft to shut down.

It can also damage electronic systems and aircraft instruments, Danang said. In addition, the presence of thick ash on the runway increases the risk of takeoffs and landings.

Sam Ratulangi Airport in Manado is temporarily closed until Sunday, April 21, at 12 p.m. Central Indonesia Time (GMT+8). The decision followed the monitoring of volcanic ash activities of Mount Ruang, as well as Notice to AirMen Number A1021/24/NOTAMRT A1016/24.

Three days after the Mount Ruang eruption, Sam Ratulangi Airport recorded 40 flight cancellations with 5,577 affected passengers. 

Novali Panji Nugroho

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