Volcanic Ash From Anak Krakatau Halts Malaysia-Jakarta Air Traffic
On 6 September 2026, a combined 20 flights between Malaysia and Jakarta were cancelled after volcanic ash from the eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau drifted into the airspace around Jakarta's Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK). The disruption affected two carriers and left passengers on both ends of the route without same-day travel options.
What Each Airline Cancelled
Malaysia Airlines pulled 12 services operating between Kuala Lumpur (KUL) and Jakarta (CGK). The affected flight numbers were MH713, MH712, MH711, MH710, MH717, MH716, MH721, MH720, MH723, MH722, MH725, and MH724. The airline said it was monitoring the situation closely and would contact affected passengers directly by email and SMS, provided their contact details were current in the booking system. Passengers needing immediate help were directed to the airline's live chat and its global contact centre.
Batik Air, which operates under Indonesia's Lion Air Group, cancelled eight scheduled services: OD398, OD399, OD346, OD347, OD388, OD389, OD390, and OD391. Six of those routes ran between Kuala Lumpur International Airport and Jakarta; the remaining two connected Subang with Jakarta. The airline cited the specific hazards volcanic ash poses to aircraft, noting that ash clouds can reduce visibility, interfere with navigation systems, and compromise engine performance. Batik Air said affected passengers could either rebook on the next available service or request a full refund through its customer care centre or their original booking channel.
The Wider Disruption at Soekarno-Hatta
The cancellations were part of a broader crisis at CGK. Separate reporting noted that four additional airports across Indonesia were also shut as ash from the Anak Krakatau eruption continued to spread, signalling that the disruption extended well beyond the Malaysia-Jakarta corridor. Hotels near the airport reportedly filled quickly, with some stranded travelers facing waits of two days or more for the next available flight.
Practical Advice for Travelers
If you are booked on a Malaysia Airlines or Batik Air service to or from Jakarta in the coming days, check your registered contact details in your booking profile immediately so you receive automated alerts. Both airlines have committed to publishing updates through their official websites and social media channels. For rebooking or refund requests, contact the airline directly rather than waiting for outreach, given the volume of affected passengers.
Volcanic ash events are difficult to predict in duration. Travelers with flexible itineraries should consider building in extra buffer days when visiting destinations near active volcanoes in the Indonesian archipelago.
Why It Matters for Hosts
Independent accommodation operators near Soekarno-Hatta and in the greater Jakarta area should prepare a clear, brief communication template they can send to incoming guests at short notice. During an ash event, guests may arrive late, not at all, or need to extend their stay unexpectedly. Having a written policy on late arrivals, no-shows linked to force-majeure flight cancellations, and extended-stay pricing will reduce friction and protect both the guest relationship and your revenue. It is also worth keeping a short list of ground transport alternatives so you can advise guests who are rerouted through other airports.
Details of the flight cancellations were first reported by Malay Mail on 6 September 2026. This post is published by the Qontaktly travel blog.
First reported by malaymail.com.