New Etna eruption disrupts air traffic in southern Italy, Catania Airport heavily affected

A renewed eruption of Mount Etna has caused significant disruption to air traffic in eastern Sicily, forcing the cancellation of most arriving and departing flights at Catania Airport until at least 10:00 local time on Tuesday.

The volcanic activity intensified over the weekend, with the volcano ejecting both lava and large quantities of volcanic ash. According to local authorities, the ash plume reached an altitude of approximately 1.5 kilometres on Sunday, creating hazardous conditions for aircraft operating in the region.

As a result, Catania Airport has suspended the majority of flight operations, while some services have been diverted to Palermo Airport. Passengers travelling to or from Sicily are advised to check the status of their flights with their airline before heading to the airport, as further disruptions remain possible depending on volcanic activity and prevailing winds.

Mount Etna, standing at more than 3,300 metres, is Europe’s most active volcano. Its frequent eruptions have repeatedly affected aviation in recent years, with volcanic ash posing a serious hazard to aircraft engines and flight operations. Even relatively small ash clouds can lead to airspace restrictions, as volcanic particles can damage engines, cockpit windows and aircraft systems.