Warning to travelers: Etna eruption disrupts flights over Malta

Volcanic ash from Mount Etna's recent activity has disrupted flights not only in Sicily but also over Malta, approximately 220 kilometers to the south. Malta International Airport announced that flight operations were affected by the ash clouds, leading to cancellations and delays.

By Tuesday afternoon, Malta International Airport reported that 19 flights had been canceled, with several others experiencing significant delays. This disruption comes as Mount Etna, Europe's most active volcano, resumed its eruptions last week, forcing the closure of Sicily's main airport in Catania for several days.

Catania Airport, Italy's fifth busiest airport by passenger traffic, announced on Tuesday that it was extending the suspension of all arriving and departing flights until 11:00 AM local time on Wednesday. Passengers with flights scheduled from either Catania or Malta are strongly advised to verify their flight status before heading to the airport.

Malta International Airport stated that passengers whose flights are canceled or heavily delayed should not travel to the airport unless instructed by their airline. For those who arrive at the airport to find their flight canceled, ground handling staff are providing information and assistance with alternative travel arrangements. Despite August being the busiest month for operations, the airport is working closely with ground handling partners to assist affected passengers as quickly as possible.