The airport closure has affected more than 8,000 travellers. (Source: AFP) Hanoi (VNA) - Ngurah Rai International Airportin the Indonesian tourist island of Bali was closed on June 29 followingthe volcanic eruption of Mount Agung in theisland one day earlier.
The eruption sent thick smoke and ash billowing 2,000m into the air, alocal official said.
According to the local authority’s decision, Ngurah Raiairport has been closed from 3am to at least 7pm (Indonesia time) on June 29.
Based on the meteorology agency’s prediction, the volcanic ash will reach theairport on June 29’s morning, said spokesman of the airport Yanus Suprayogi,adding that the airport closure can be extended after 7pm if necessary.
At least 48 flights to and from the airport, including those operated byMalaysia-based AirAsia and Australia's JetStar were canceled as Mount Agung erupted.
Thedisruption has affected more than 8,000 travellers.
MountAgung rumbled back to life last year and has been erupting periodically since.
Agung's last majoreruption in 1963 killed around 1,600 people and injured hundreds.
Indonesia lies on the Pacific Ring ofFire where several tectonic plates meet and cause 90 percent of the world’sseismic activity. The country is currently home to nearly 130 activevolcanoes.-VNA
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