Flights arriving at Catania airport in eastern Sicily were suspended after volcanic ash from a new eruption of Mount Etna drifted into the airspace around the airport, disrupting operations at one of Italy’s busiest aviation hubs.
Airport operator SAC said incoming flights were halted until 1500 GMT on Monday due to the impact of the ash cloud. Passengers were advised to check their flight status with airlines before travelling to the airport.
The airport operator said the situation was being closely monitored, with further updates expected depending on changes in volcanic activity and weather conditions.
Mount Etna, which rises above Sicily’s eastern coast, is one of the world’s most active volcanoes and regularly affects air traffic at nearby Catania airport.
The latest eruption is continuing from volcanic vents located at altitudes of around 2,750 metres and 2,360 metres, according to Italy’s National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV).
The activity has produced several lava flows and extensive lava fields, while volcanic ash emissions have created hazards for aircraft operating in the area.
INGV’s Volcano Observatory Notice for Aviation (VONA) remains at the highest alert level, red, indicating continued risks to aviation from ash in the atmosphere.
Catania airport is Sicily’s main airport and the fifth busiest in Italy by passenger traffic. Previous eruptions of Mount Etna have repeatedly caused temporary flight restrictions due to ash clouds affecting aircraft safety.
Authorities said airport operations would continue to be adjusted based on the development of the eruption and updated safety assessments.
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