Italian tourism businesses lose 22 million euros due to Catania airport shutdown

The Italian tourism sector is reeling from the impact of Catania airport's extended closure, with businesses reporting an estimated 22 million euros in losses. The disruption, which lasted until August 15, occurred during the crucial peak of the summer holiday season, severely affecting travel plans.

Data compiled by the Assoesercenti association reveals the extent of the paralysis: 684 flights were canceled, and the disruptions impacted approximately 104,000 people. The losses are not confined to hotels but ripple through the entire tourism ecosystem, including restaurants, transportation services, retail, and other related businesses.

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When a tourist does not arrive in Sicily, not only is a room reservation lost, but also dinner in a restaurant, a car ride with a driver or taxi, car rental, a tour, a guide service, and shopping in stores.

Salvo Politino, president of the entrepreneurs' organization Ansie, highlighted the cascading effect. "When a tourist does not arrive in Sicily, not only is a room reservation lost, but also dinner in a restaurant, a car ride with a driver or taxi, car rental, a tour, a guide service, and shopping in stores," he stated. The organization is urging the development of a crisis management protocol specifically for situations involving volcanic activity, emphasizing that while eruptions cannot be prevented, their economic fallout can be mitigated.

Airport management acknowledged the crisis as the most significant in two decades. The situation underscores Sicily's vulnerability to natural events and the urgent need for preparedness to protect its vital tourism industry.

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We cannot stop Etna from erupting, but we can ensure that every natural hazard does not automatically turn into an economic crisis for thousands of Sicilian businesses.