As airborne ash can severely damage jet engines, the state-owned airlines cancelled all flights within Argentina. Flights to and from other countries were also cancelled until further notice. At least six international carriers suspended flights between Buenos Aires and cities in the US, Europe and South America. Other carriers were expected to follow. Flights from Chile over Argentine territory were also suspended.

The capital's usually bustling international and domestic airports were nearly deserted on Tuesday. Aviation regulators held talks to decide whether to close them and how long for. Geologists in Chile said the Cordon Caulle volcano could keep erupting for several weeks.

"Given that even this morning the volcano continues to be active, the reopening of the airports isn't expected until the conditions necessary for security can be guaranteed," Argentina's transportation department said in statement.

Transportation officials were meeting with Argentina's meteorological service representatives, civil aviation board and airport regulator to figure out where the ash cloud will move next and what to do about it, the statement added.