Flights to Bali cancelled after eruption

Victorian travellers have been caught up in a wave of flight cancellations after Indonesia’s Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki erupted this week, sending a massive ash cloud into the air.

The eruption, on Flores Island in Indonesia’s east, forced airlines to ground dozens of flights in and out of Bali. The volcanic ash drifted into key flight paths, disrupting travel across the region.

Jetstar confirmed several flights between Bali and Australia were cancelled on Monday. A spokeswoman said customers would be contacted directly if their flights were affected.

Qantas also advised passengers to expect delays or cancellations.

“We will contact customers directly if their flight is disrupted,” a Qantas spokeswoman said.

Virgin Australia said it had cancelled services and was closely monitoring conditions.

“Some Virgin Australia Bali services have been cancelled following the eruption of Mount Lewotobi earlier today,” a spokeswoman said.

“The safety of our guests and crew is our highest priority.”

“We regret the impact of this on guests’ travel plans.”

Flights from Melbourne and Avalon airports to Bali have been among those affected. Many travellers who were due to return home have faced delays, while holidaymakers planning trips to the popular destination are being urged to check with airlines before heading to the airport.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s Smartraveller website warned that “some flights between Australia and Bali have been cancelled or postponed” due to the eruption. Travellers have been advised to contact their airlines or travel insurers to discuss alternative plans.

DFAT is also urging Australians already in Indonesia to keep up with local advice and avoid exclusion zones around the volcano, which can change at short notice.

The situation remains fluid, with airlines reviewing flights as conditions evolve. Passengers are encouraged to stay updated through official channels including smartraveller.gov.au, qantas.com, jetstar.com and virginaustralia.com.