Flights to and from Labuan Bajo have resumed normal operations following a temporary disruption caused by the eruption of Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki on Tuesday, June 17, at 5:35 PM local time. The active volcano, located in East Flores Regency, spewed a towering ash column exceeding 11 kilometers, prompting airlines and aviation authorities to take precautionary measures to ensure the safety of passengers and crew.
According to the latest statement from Komodo International Airport officials, flight schedules to and from Labuan Bajo have fully normalized as of Wednesday, June 18. Despite a series of cancellations and delays the day prior, the airport is now operating as usual.
Mount Lewotobi Eruption: A Major Volcanic Event in Eastern Flores
Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki, one of the two twin volcanoes in East Flores, underwent a significant eruption on Tuesday, June 17 sending volcanic ash high into the atmosphere. The eruption—classified as explosive—disrupted flight paths over parts of Flores Island, leading to widespread travel disruptions across the region.
Labuan Bajo and Mount Lewotobi: Same Island, Distant Locations
While both Labuan Bajo and Mount Lewotobi are situated on the same island, Flores, they are located approximately 600 kilometers apart. Mount Lewotobi lies on the eastern end of the island, whereas Labuan Bajo, a major tourist hub and gateway to Komodo National Park, is located on the western tip.
Due to this geographic distance, Labuan Bajo was not directly affected by volcanic activity. However, airspace safety protocols required temporary flight suspensions as a precautionary measure against ash contamination along flight routes.
Komodo Airport: 12 Flights Cancelled Amid Safety Concerns
Airport authorities at Komodo International Airport reported that 12 flights were canceled on Tuesday, June 17, due to safety concerns linked to the eruption. Airlines such as Citilink, Lion Air, Batik Air, and Wings Air temporarily suspended their operations to assess the situation.
The disruption, however, was short-lived. Following visual monitoring, air quality testing (paper tests), and favorable wind direction moving ash clouds away from Labuan Bajo, authorities gradually resumed operations on Wednesday, June 18.
Other Regional Airports Heavily Impacted
While Labuan Bajo experienced minimal disruption, central and eastern parts of Flores Island faced more severe impacts. Three regional airports were temporarily shut down due to high ash concentrations:
- Fransiskus Xaverius Seda Airport (Maumere) – closed until June 19 at 6:00 AM WITA
- Soa Airport (Bajawa) – closed until June 18 at 5:00 PM WITA
- Haji Hasan Aroeboesman Airport (Ende) – closed until June 19 at 7:00 AM WITA
According to reports, the closures affected more than 14,000 travelers, including both local residents and international tourists traveling across Flores or en route to Labuan Bajo.
Komodo Island and Labuan Bajo Now: Safe, Comfortable, and Ready for Visitors
The good news is that, following a swift recovery after the eruption, Komodo Airport is back in full operation. Travelers heading to Labuan Bajo can now continue their journeys without significant delays.
Tour operators like Komodoo Luxury continue to provide updates and support for tourists. Their field teams are available to assist with flexible schedules, changes to travel plans, and alternative transport options if necessary.
Safe Travel Tips for Labuan Bajo After the Eruption
While the situation has stabilized, here are a few important tips for those planning to visit Labuan Bajo in the near future:
- Monitor Weather and Volcanic Activity: Stay updated with the latest information from the Meteorological, Climatological, and Geophysical Agency (BMKG), PVMBG, or airport authorities for important updates.
Use Trusted Travel Agents: Travel agencies like Komodo Luxury are well-prepared to handle unexpected situations, offering flexible services and local teams that are responsive to changes. - Allow Extra Time for Flight Adjustments: Be sure to leave some buffer time in case of flight schedule changes due to weather or volcanic conditions.
- Consider Travel Insurance: Having additional coverage is beneficial if your trip is delayed or canceled.
Flights to Labuan Bajo Are Back to Normal
While the eruption of Mount Lewotobi caused some temporary disruptions to flights across parts of Flores, thanks to quick coordination between airport authorities, airlines, and the BMKG, flights to Labuan Bajo are now operating normally.
For those wanting to explore the beauty of Komodo National Park, visit exotic islands, or enjoy a scenic sailing trip, it’s time to revisit your travel plans.
With the support of professional operators like Komodo Luxury, your trip to Komodo Island and Labuan Bajo will be smoother, safer, and more enjoyable than ever.
