Volcanic ash grounds flights at Sicilian airport, operations halted
The management of the airport in Catania, Sicily, announced on Tuesday that flight operations, both arrivals and departures, would be suspended due to increased volcanic activity from Mount Etna. The airport has been temporarily closed.
The crisis management committee decided that flights should be suspended until the volcanic ash settles and the airport is thoroughly cleaned before they can resume.
Until then, planned air travel will be cancelled or redirected to other airports.
Appeal to travellers
Airport managers have urged passengers to contact their airlines directly for the latest information regarding their reservations and planned travels.
Volcanology experts reported that the volcanic ash cloud resulting from the eruption reached 7,925 metres above ground.
