Volcanic ash from Mount Etna forces Sicily airport closure

Italy's busiest airport in Sicily has halted all flight services due to ash dispersal from the active volcano Mount Etna. Catania airport announced the suspension of both arriving and departing flights as a precautionary measure to ensure passenger and aircraft safety.

The closure came after Mount Etna released significant quantities of volcanic ash into the atmosphere, reducing visibility and creating hazardous conditions for aviation operations. Airport authorities indicated that the suspension would remain in effect until at least late Tuesday evening, pending assessment of air quality and atmospheric conditions.

Mountain Etna, Europe's most active volcano located on the island of Sicily, periodically enters phases of increased activity. Such eruptions can emit ash columns that spread across considerable distances, affecting regional infrastructure and transportation networks.

The airport closure will impact thousands of travelers, with airlines expected to coordinate alternative arrangements and rebooking procedures. Operations are anticipated to resume once visibility improves and ash concentrations return to acceptable levels for safe flight operations.