The busiest airport in Sicily, Catania Airport (CTA), was forced to suspend all its departure and arrival flights due to the recent volcanic activity of Mount Etna. Some airlines were diverted to Palermo Airport (PMO).
Mount Etna’s Eruption
Mount Etna is famously known as one of the world’s most active and monitored volcanoes. Located in Sicily, Italy, the volcano is frequently active, as it is situated at the boundary between the African and Eurasian tectonic plates.
Although the volcanic activity is not lethal or of extreme danger to tourists and citizens, it does release smoke into the air. The ash carried into the atmosphere by the wind creates unsafe airspace for all kinds of jets, given the dense, dark plume the volcano releases.
The Italian National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV) reported that the ash reached an altitude of almost 1.5 kilometres, which could be dangerous to aircraft engines. The ashes consist of small glass particles, which can melt inside the engines and cause failure.
Catania Airport Flight Suspension
This is not the first time Catania Airport has undergone closure and cancellations due to Mount Etna‘s activity. Although it did not result in massive flight cancellations, the most recent eruption was in June 2026. On July 6, 2026, all flights to the airport were cancelled, and passengers were told not to travel prior to checking the status of their flights.
All flights were suspended starting on Monday, July 6, from 2 p.m. onwards. At first, it was said that the suspension would last until 10 a.m. on Tuesday, July 7. According to Catania Airport’s official website, flights have been cleared to resume operations effective immediately.
The airport has ensured the safety of arrivals and departures, but it advised passengers to check the flight status before going to the airport.
When do you think the airport will be receiving flights again? Why do you think so? Let us know your opinion on the comments below.
