Mount Etna Eruption Halts Flights in Catania Amid Summer Travel Rush

An eruption from Mount Etna caused the suspension of flights in Catania, Sicily, affecting peak summer travel. The Catania-Fontanarossa airport halted operations while cleanup of ash and aircraft was underway. Frequent volcanic activity from Etna had already led to previous closures, impacting travel and tourism.

Flights to and from Catania were disrupted on Tuesday due to an eruption from Mount Etna, the airport operator announced, compounding travel difficulties during the busy summer tourist season.

SAC, the management company of Catania-Fontanarossa airport, stated that operations would be halted until 6 p.m. (1600 GMT). Cleanup efforts began promptly as soon as ash showers subsided, with teams focusing on decontaminating aircraft affected by the ash.

Mount Etna, renowned as one of the world's most active volcanoes, has been particularly volatile in recent days, dispersing hot ash and lava. Catania airport, which had already faced closures earlier this month due to volcanic ash, serves as a central hub for eastern Sicily, drawing more arrivals than Palermo.

The halt in operations led to flight cancellations and rerouting, as previously advised by the airline operator.

(With inputs from agencies.)