Mount Etna volcano ash cloud halts arrivals at Sicily's Catania airport

Flights arriving at Sicily's Catania airport faced suspension on Monday due to volcanic ash from a fresh eruption of Mount Etna. The airport operator, SAC, announced the suspension until 1500 GMT, advising passengers to check flight statuses with their airlines.

Mount Etna, situated on Sicily's east coast, is renowned as one of the world's most active volcanoes. Its frequent eruptions have a history of disrupting air traffic at Catania, which serves as the island's primary airport and is Italy's fifth busiest by passenger volume.

The National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV) reported that the latest eruptive phase continues from vents at altitudes of 2,750 meters and 2,360 meters. This activity is feeding several lava flows and creating extensive lava fields. The INGV's Volcano Observatory Notice for Aviation (VONA) remains at the highest alert level, red, indicating ongoing hazards to aircraft from ash emissions. The situation is under constant monitoring, with further updates expected based on volcanic activity and weather conditions.

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As the situation is significantly affecting operations, passengers are kindly advised to check the status of their flight with their airline before heading to the airport.