The Italian airport of Catania has suspended all flight operations on Saturday, September 26, 2026, due to the dense ash cloud from the ongoing activity of Mount Etna, Italy's most active volcano. The airport's operating company announced that all incoming and outgoing flights have been grounded until midday on Sunday. This decision was made in conjunction with the prevailing bad weather conditions in the region.
According to the National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV), a large ash cloud from Etna rose to a height of approximately four kilometers, prompting a red alert, the highest level of warning for air safety. The ash cloud has caused disruptions to air travel, with several flights redirected to nearby airports. The city's transportation network has also been affected, with strong winds and heavy rainfall causing disturbances.
Catania, the second-largest city on the island of Sicily, has been hit by a severe storm, leading to chaos on the roads and further complicating air travel. The airport, a vital transportation hub for eastern Sicily, served around 12 million passengers in 2024, making it one of the busiest airports in Italy. Sicily is a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors each year.
The INGV continues to monitor Etna's activity, which has been increasing in recent days, with large amounts of smoke and ash being emitted. The institute provides regular updates on the volcano's activity through its official channels. The situation is being closely watched by authorities, who are working to minimize disruptions to air travel and ensure public safety.
The closure of Catania Airport has significant implications for the region's tourism industry, which relies heavily on air travel. The airport's shutdown will likely cause inconvenience to travelers and economic losses for local businesses. Authorities are working to resolve the situation as quickly as possible and restore normal flight operations.
Mount Etna is one of the most active volcanoes in the world, with frequent eruptions occurring over the past few thousand years. Its activity is closely monitored by the INGV, which provides critical information to authorities and the public. The volcano's impact on the surrounding region is significant, with ash clouds and lava flows posing a threat to local communities.
The Italian authorities are taking precautions to ensure public safety, with emergency services on standby in case of an escalation of the situation. The region's residents and visitors are advised to stay informed about the latest developments and follow the instructions of local authorities. The airport's closure is expected to be lifted once the ash cloud has dissipated and flight operations can resume safely.
Key points
- Catania Airport closed due to ash from Etna volcano
- Red alert issued due to ash cloud height of 4km
- 12 million passengers served at Catania Airport in 2024
