Jakarta, Sept. 6 -- The Transportation Ministry urged commercial airlines to fulfill passenger rights and deliver comprehensive handling services following extended airport closures caused by the eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau.

The ministry's Director General of Civil Aviation Lukman F. Laisa emphasized in Jakarta on Sunday that air carriers are legally bound to support stranded travelers in accordance with established aviation consumer protection regulations.

"Airlines are required to provide services and handling to affected passengers, including timely status updates and rebooking or refund options in accordance with applicable regulations," Lukman said in a statement.

To prevent severe terminal overcrowding, the ministry advised p...