Volcano Watch: What air travelers should know in case of Mt. Spurr eruption

ANCHORAGE, Alaska (KTUU) - State transportation leaders said with the increased likelihood a potential Mt. Spurr eruption could impact Alaska air traffic in the next weeks or months, they are staying in constant contact with Alaska Volcano Observatory scientists as they work to ensure Anchorage’s Ted Stevens International Airport information is regularly updated.

“We’ll keep the public safe and we’ll communicate regularly should we have impacts,” DOT Communications Director Shannon McCarthy said. “A lot of it depends on how much ash is put into the air and then you know where that ash is moving to depending on wind speed and wind direction.”

McCarthy said that since volcanic ash is made up of essentially tiny glass particles, it can easily cause damage to combustion engines.

With that in mind, she said the airport, whose staff she said regularly runs emergency practice drills, could see short-term closures if an eruption were to be on par with the 1992 eruption.

The Alaska Travelgram’s Scott McMurren, who was at the Anchorage airport during the 1992 Spurr eruption, said having a game plan, staying informed through travel apps and news sources, and checking on travel insurance are all crucial steps.

As for canceled flights, McMurren said it often depends on what type of ticket is purchased, and when it was bought.

“Alaska Airlines has been here through these events and so whether it’s refunded, or whether it comes out as a credit, or where they just rebook you, and so forth that really is a case by case basis,” McMurren said. “I’m traveling tomorrow morning. Am I watching the weather? Yes. Am I watching that volcano? Yes, you know, we’ll just have to see.”

In a statement, Alaska Airlines Public Affairs Manager Tim Thompson said in the case of an eruption, the airline would quickly assess any ash movement with the safety of employees and equipment being the number one concern.

“We would also work closely with our airport partners on diversion location plans if an eruption were to occur with flights in the air,” Thompson said.

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