T here are two volcanoes which have be active within the past couple of months; and they could potentially threaten to disrupt air travel in the near future — especially in Europe.
The risk level for the aviation industry has been raised to orange — the second-highest of four risk levels — by the meteorological office in Iceland due to the increased possibility of an eruption of the Bardarbunga volcano, according to this article posted at BBC News Europe.
Recent volcanic activity at Mount Etna in Italy also has the potential to threaten air travel. In fact, delays of flights have already occurred.
2010 was a particularly active year for volcano eruptions, which included the reported eruptions of the Eyjafjallajokul volcano in Iceland; the Pacaya volcano in Guatemala in Central America; and the Tungurahua volcano in Ecuador.
The eruption of the Eyjafjallajokul volcano was the most significant; as it caused the delays and cancellations of many flights and affected hundreds of thousands of passengers.
Volcanic activity also disrupted air travel to Bali in Indonesia back in January of 2011.
Although there is still uncertainty at this time as to when — or if — either of the volcanoes will actually erupt, stay informed with the news for the latest information on this developing situation; and check with the airline on which you plan on being a passenger to find out if there are any delays or cancellations which may affect your travel.
Chart courtesy of United States Geological Survey.
