Flight operations at Catania International Airport in Sicily have been suspended due to increased volcanic ash emissions from Mount Etna, one of Europe’s most active volcanoes. According to officials, Mount Etna has been continuously releasing volcanic ash since Saturday, creating hazardous conditions for air travel.
Foreign media reports said Catania’s Vincenzo Bellini International Airport, also known as Fontanarossa Airport, is located near the slopes of Mount Etna. SAC, the airport operator, announced that all domestic and international flight operations would remain suspended until 11:59 pm local time on Sunday due to the spread of volcanic ash in the atmosphere.
Passengers have been advised to check the status of their flights with their respective airlines before travelling to the airport. Officials said the ash cloud rising from the volcano reached an altitude of approximately 4 kilometres (2.5 miles) on Saturday. As a result, aviation authorities issued a “Red Code” warning for aircraft operating in the area, the highest level of alert for air travel.
Volcanic ash poses a serious threat to aircraft because it can damage engines and reduce visibility for pilots. For this reason, flight operations at airports in areas affected by volcanic activity are often suspended or restricted when ash levels become hazardous. Mount Etna is one of Europe’s most active volcanoes and is closely monitored because of its proximity to Sicily’s densely populated eastern coastal areas.