A lingering volcanic ash cloud has forced the cancellation of several flights from Bali, keeping thousands of Australians stranded, and all flights to the island from Australia have been cancelled by Virgin, Qantas and Jetstar.

The airlines apologised to passengers who were heading to Bali on Sunday.

They say they are monitoring the situation closely and are yet to make a decision on Monday’s flights.

The airlines continue to operate relief flights to get people back to Australia as soon as possible.

More than 7,400 passengers have been flown back home by Jetstar, Virgin and Qantas since Denpasar airport reopened on Wednesday after the ash cloud from Mount Agung’s eruption cleared.

But more than 2,000 people will remain at the popular holiday destination after conditions started to deteriorate on Saturday afternoon – nearly a week since the volcano’s eruption.

Mount Agung’s activity level remained listed as high despite no major eruption occurring, Indonesia’s volcanology agency said on Saturday.