Mount Etna Eruption Closes Catania Airport Until Friday as Flights Are Canceled

The Mount Etna eruption has forced authorities to keep Catania Airport closed until at least 2 a.m. local time on Friday, August 14, as volcanic ash continues to make flying unsafe.

All arrivals and departures at Catania–Fontanarossa Airport have been suspended, disrupting travel plans for thousands of passengers during the busy summer holiday season.

Hundreds of Flights Canceled

Hundreds of flights have been canceled, delayed or diverted since Mount Etna entered its latest eruptive phase.

Many aircraft have been redirected to Palermo, Trapani and Comiso airports, placing additional pressure on transportation services across Sicily.

Passengers Face Major Travel Disruption

Some stranded passengers have faced long waits and difficulty finding alternative transportation or accommodation.

Extra train services have been introduced to help travelers move between Catania, Palermo and other parts of Sicily.

Volcanic Ash Reaches Malta

Ash from Mount Etna has also drifted south across the Mediterranean, causing flight cancellations and delays at Malta International Airport.

Airport restrictions may continue depending on wind direction, ash concentration and changes in the volcano’s activity.

Travelers Urged to Check Flights

Catania Airport officials are urging passengers to check their flight status directly with their airline before traveling to the airport.

Mount Etna is Europe’s highest and most active volcano. Its eruptions regularly affect aviation around eastern Sicily when volcanic ash enters nearby airspace.