NEW DELHI: The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), on Monday issued an advisory directing airlines to avoid altitudes and regions affected by volcanic ash from Ethiopia’s Hayli Gubbi eruption, which occurred on Sunday. According to the advisory, airports have also been asked to inspect runways for ash contamination and suspend operations if necessary. Officials said flight disruptions are likely as the situation evolves, reported ANI. Ash plumes from the Hayli Gubbi volcano are expected to move eastward towards Delhi and Jaipur starting Monday evening, with early movements projected near Jamnagar around 5.30pm. Airlines and aviation authorities are monitoring potential impact on flight paths, and some services have already been affected. IndiGo’s Kannur–Abu Dhabi flight (6E 1433) diverted to Ahmedabad on Monday to avoid the plume zone, while another Indian carrier’s aircraft that landed in Abu Dhabi underwent detailed engine checks before its return leg.“We know the areas impacted by ash plumes and are taking detours to avoid flying there,” a senior official of an Indian carrier told TOI. In a statement on X, Akasa Air noted, “We are closely monitoring the volcanic activity in Ethiopia and its potential impact on flight operations… passenger safety and well-being is our utmost priority.”The plume is drifting beyond Oman and Yemen, with intensity expected to reduce as it travels over land and sea. However, Delhi and Jaipur airspace remain areas of concern as authorities track the ash cloud’s movement.