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Mount Etna has sent a volcanic ash cloud approximately 4km into the atmosphere, prompting the suspension of incoming flights at Catania Airport in Sicily and a red aviation warning for the area.
The ash was emitted from Mount Etna's north-east crater and was reported to be moving southwards. Catania Airport's operations were significantly restricted as authorities responded to the volcanic activity and difficult weather conditions affecting the region.
Incoming flight operations at Catania Airport were suspended until 16:00 local time on Saturday, while restrictions were also placed on departures.
Catania Airport said in a statement that incoming flight operations had been suspended because of volcanic activity and weather conditions, with temporary limitations also affecting departures.
Passengers were advised to check directly with their airlines before travelling to the airport because flight schedules could change as conditions develop.
The airport's Operational Coordination Unit closed sector C1 of the airspace and imposed a restriction allowing no landings and no take-offs during the suspension period.
Before the complete suspension, the airport had reduced its capacity to four landings an hour, compared with the normal rate of around 12.
Several flights were diverted before the restrictions were introduced.
Ten flights were reportedly redirected to other airports in Sicily, with five sent to Palermo, three to Trapani and two to Comiso.
A Volotea service between Catania and Verona was also able to operate from Comiso instead of Catania.
The airport's live departures information showed a number of flights delayed or cancelled as the disruption continued, while incoming services were being diverted.
Passengers travelling through Catania were advised to monitor airline updates before setting out.
The volcanic activity resulted in a red VONA aviation warning being issued. VONA, or Volcano Observatory Notice for Aviation, provides information about volcanic activity that could affect aircraft operations.
The warning is particularly important because volcanic ash can pose serious risks to aircraft engines and other systems, making ash-cloud monitoring an essential part of aviation safety.
The reported ash cloud reached approximately 4km above the volcano, according to measurements cited from Italy's National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV).
The volcanic activity occurred alongside severe weather affecting Catania.
A strong storm reportedly affected the city overnight, adding another operational challenge for aviation authorities and passengers.
The combination of volcanic ash and adverse weather conditions contributed to the restrictions imposed at Fontanarossa Airport.
Catania Airport urged passengers to check the status of their flights with their respective airlines before travelling to the airport.
The situation remains dependent on volcanic activity, ash movement, weather conditions and aviation safety assessments.
Mount Etna is one of Europe's most active volcanoes and is closely monitored by Italian authorities. Changes in volcanic activity can lead to temporary restrictions designed to protect passengers and aviation crews.
