Mount Etna Erupts: Skies Over Southern Italy Closed, Flight Disruptions Reported
At the peak of the tourist season, Mount Etna is spewing volcanic ash that endangers aircraft. The airport in Catania, the gateway to Sicily, has been forced to suspend operations at least until tomorrow. Passengers are being diverted to Palermo, where they are struggling to find ground transportation.
The eruption of Mount Etna in Italy is once again causing significant flight disruptions today, right at the peak of the summer tourist season. Ash emitted from the volcano, which poses a safety risk to aircraft, has forced authorities to extend restrictions in the local airspace and suspend operations at the airport in Catania, Sicily.
The SAC company, which manages the Catania airport, stated that air traffic will remain suspended at least until 17:00 (Israel time) tomorrow. Passengers are strongly advised to check their flight status directly with their airlines.
The impact of the eruption has been felt well beyond Sicily. Overnight, flight cancellations and significant delays were reported in neighboring Malta after volcanic ash drifted south across the Mediterranean. While conditions appear to be improving today, Malta International Airport has warned passengers that further disruptions remain possible.
As Europe's highest and most active volcano, Etna frequently disrupts operations at the Catania airport, which serves as the primary gateway to Sicily and is Italy's fifth-largest airport by passenger volume. Prolonged restrictions in Catania have placed immense pressure on other Sicilian airports during one of the busiest periods of the year.
Palermo Mayor Roberto Lagalla reported that his city's airport has handled 190 flights in recent days that were originally scheduled to land at or depart from Catania. Some diverted passengers have complained about a lack of assistance in finding ground transportation to their final destinations. The sudden influx of travelers caused a surge in demand for buses and taxis, creating difficulties for many. This unusual load also triggered delays at the Palermo airport itself.
Comiso Airport, a smaller facility south of Catania that had been assisting with the overflow, returned to full operation today after being forced to suspend flights last night due to volcanic ash.
