EnvironmentAccident Affects Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia

Haze from Indonesian fires disrupts flights between Malaysia and Singapore

Published 2d ago · Latest report 14h ago

Covered in 2 countries

AI summary34s readNegative

Regional haze from Indonesian fires has disrupted flights between Malaysia and Singapore.

Regional haze from Indonesian fires has reduced visibility, prompting Malaysian carrier Firefly to extend flight cancellations between Subang and Singapore's Seletar Airport. Aviation authorities in Singapore report that 16 flights were diverted earlier in October, though local airports remain operational.

The causeSmoke from agricultural fires in Indonesia has drifted across the region, creating severe air pollution.
The responseMalaysian airline Firefly suspended services as a proactive safety measure.
The impactSingapore and Kuala Lumpur briefly recorded some of the highest pollution levels globally.

By the numbers

16flights diverted from Seletar Airport

Timeline

Oct 5Low visibility from haze begins causing flight diversions at Seletar Airport.
Oct 11Firefly cancels flights between Subang and Seletar airports through Monday.
Oct 13Firefly extends flight suspensions as smoke from Indonesian fires spikes pollution.

Why it matters

Transboundary haze is a recurring environmental challenge in Southeast Asia, driven by seasonal land and forest fires. These smoke episodes frequently disrupt regional transportation, health services, and outdoor activities.