DGCA Issues Advisory on Ethiopian Volcanic Ash
In light of the recent volcanic eruption in Ethiopia, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has issued an important advisory for Indian airlines. The eruption of the Hayli Gubbi volcano has sent ash clouds drifting over several countries, including parts of India. With safety being the utmost priority, the DGCA has directed airlines to avoid affected areas and specific altitudes.
The ash clouds, which began their journey after the volcano erupted for the first time in over 10,000 years, entered India on Monday evening. These clouds are expected to impact regions in northern, eastern, and northeastern India. The DGCA's advisory comes as some flights have already been affected, including an IndiGo flight that was diverted from its route to Abu Dhabi.
Volcanic ash can pose severe risks to aircraft, particularly affecting engine performance. The ash consists of abrasive particles that can damage engines and other critical components of the aircraft. To mitigate these risks, the DGCA has instructed airlines to conduct post-flight inspections of engines and airframes for any anomalies caused by ash encounters.
Airlines are also required to monitor engine performance closely and report any issues such as cabin smoke, unusual odors, or fluctuations in engine operation. Additionally, flight dispatchers must keep abreast of volcanic ash advisories and relevant meteorological data to ensure safe operations.
The DGCA's advisory emphasizes the importance of compliance with the guidelines from aircraft manufacturers and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). If volcanic ash contaminates an airport, airlines must carry out immediate inspections of runways and taxiways before resuming operations.
In light of the potential disruptions caused by the ash clouds, the DGCA has urged airlines to remain vigilant and responsive to changing conditions. The safety of passengers and the integrity of flight operations are paramount, and thorough adherence to the advisory will help safeguard both.
As the situation develops, Indian airlines must take proactive measures to adapt their flight plans accordingly, ensuring that passenger safety remains at the forefront of their operations during this unprecedented event.
