Is it safe to travel to Iceland in 2024 with the volcano eruption and flight disruptions?

A volcano in Iceland has erupted for the fifth time in three months, with lava spewing 50 meters into the air out of a 1-kilometer-long fissure. The eruption began in the early afternoon on May 29 and is ongoing, causing visitors to be evacuated from the Blue Lagoon thermal spa, one of Iceland’s top tourist attractions.

The eruption site is located a few kilometers northeast of Grindavik, a coastal town of 3,800 people about 50 kilometers southwest of Iceland’s capital, Reykjavik. The town has been evacuated, and the roads around Grindavik are closed. Despite the proximity of the eruption site, Keflavik International Airport, Iceland’s main international airport, remains open, with flights still arriving and departing.

The Icelandic Meteorological Office has reported intense seismic activity on the Sundhnúkur crater row, indicating a possible volcanic eruption following the magma propagation. Lava is shooting about 50 meters into the sky from the fissure, which is approximately 1 kilometer long.

Authorities have advised against traveling to the affected area and have closed off the eruption site until further notice. European foreign offices have also recommended staying away from Grindavik and following the guidance of local authorities. The Blue Lagoon spa remains closed, with management evacuating all operational units as a precautionary measure.

While concerns over the impact on air travel persist, Keflavik Airport remains operational, with Icelandic airport operator ISAVIA prepared to handle volcanic activity without closing the airport. Despite the potential hazards posed by volcanic eruptions, authorities and aviation agencies are closely monitoring the situation to ensure the safety of travelers and residents in the area.