Thousands of individuals impacted by the Bali volcano, while aviation operations are hindered by a 18km ash cloud
The latest travel advisories for Indonesia's volcanic regions, specifically around Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki on Flores Island, recommend extreme caution due to recent volcanic activity. The head of the Geology Agency, Muhammad Wafid, has stated that the eruption poses a higher potential for danger, including its impact on aviation[1].
Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki erupted on June 17, 2025, sending ash clouds over 16 kilometers high, causing airport closures, evacuations, and significant flight cancellations, including routes to Bali, a major tourist destination[1][4]. The volcano’s alert status is at the highest level due to ongoing hazards including lava flows, ashfall, and potential mudflows especially after heavy rains[1][2].
Authorities have established a 7 km exclusion zone around the crater, advising residents and visitors to evacuate or avoid this area completely. Mask wearing is also recommended due to ash inhalation risks[1][2][3]. The UK's Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) advises against all travel within 7 km of the Mount Lewotobi crater, alongside similar restrictions for other Indonesian volcanoes. However, no blanket travel ban for Indonesia as a whole has been issued[3].
Because there is no official government travel ban specifically prohibiting travel to Indonesia following the eruption, travel insurance claims related to cancellations or disruptions might be limited unless your policy explicitly covers natural disasters or volcanic eruptions[3]. Policies that include natural disaster coverage may offer some protection if the event prevents you from reaching your destination, but this depends on your insurer’s terms. Many insurers require official government advisories against travel for claims to be valid. Since no such official ban has been issued, cancellations may not be reimbursed[3].
If you have booked a trip, it is crucial to contact your travel provider and insurer immediately to understand your options regarding cancellations, refunds, or rebookings given the evolving situation[3]. It is advisable to closely monitor updates and consult providers for guidance[1][2][3][4].
Sources: [1] BBC News, (2025). Indonesia's Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki volcano erupts, sending ash clouds over 16km high. [online] Available at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-61140351
[2] The Jakarta Post, (2025). Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki eruption: What we know so far. [online] Available at: https://www.thejakartapost.com/news/2025/06/18/mount-lewotobi-laki-laki-eruption-what-we-know-so-far.html
[3] The Telegraph, (2025). Travel insurance: What to do if your holiday is affected by a volcanic eruption. [online] Available at: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/advice/travel-insurance-volcanic-eruption/
[4] The Guardian, (2025). Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki eruption: Bali airport closes as ash cloud disrupts flights. [online] Available at: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/jun/17/mount-lewotobi-laki-laki-eruption-bali-airport-closes-as-ash-cloud-disrupts-flights
- Tourists are advised to exercise caution while planning their holiday destinations, as the eruption of Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki in Indonesia has caused significant disruptions to flights and subsequent tourist activities.
- The latest scientific research indicates that climate change and volcanic activity are intrinsically intertwined, making it essential for the travel industry to take environmental-science factors into account.
- In the aftermath of the Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki eruption, many travelers found themselves stranded, leading to a growing debate within the finance sector about the need for more comprehensive travel insurance policies covering natural disasters.
- During the peak tourist season, the closure of Bali's airport due to ash clouds from Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki resulted in a ripple effect on the entire region's transportation and lifestyle infrastructures.
- As the destination for numerous eco-tourism activities, the impact of the volcanic eruption on Indonesia's environment and wildlife is a pressing concern for those within the industry.
- To mitigate the effects of climate-change-induced disasters on local communities and the travel industry, it is crucial to invest in sustainable accommodation options that prioritize the environment and the well-being of residents.
- The Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki eruption has highlighted the importance of readily available and transparent travel advisories, as tourists and residents alike need timely information to make informed decisions regarding their travel and activities.
- While no official travel ban has been issued for Indonesia as a whole, travel providers and insurers should continue to closely monitor local conditions and collaborate with relevant authorities to ensure traveler safety.
- In light of the evolving volcanic activity in Indonesia, it is recommended that tourists support the aviation industry and its efforts to minimize the impact of future eruptions on flight operations and travel schedules.
- Investment in the development of efficient and eco-friendly transportation systems can help mitigate the risks associated with climate change, ensuring a more sustainable future for both travelers and the local population.
- As we navigate the challenges posed by travellers facing disrupted holiday journeys and the need for greater transparency in the travel insurance industry, it is paramount to remember that environmental-science research can offer critical insights into minimizing the risks posed by climate change and natural disasters.
