All flights arriving into and departing from Catania airport in Sicily are suspended until 2am local time on 14 August 2026. The halt extends a week-long disruption caused by volcanic ash generated by Mount Etna’s ongoing eruption, SAC, the airport operator, confirmed late on 13 August.
Diversions to Palermo and Comiso Airports
Palermo airport has taken on 190 flights originally scheduled for Catania during recent days, according to Palermo mayor Roberto Lagalla. Comiso airport, located south of Catania, briefly suspended operations on the evening of 11 August but resumed full service on 12 August after clearing ash-related disruptions.
Volcanic Activity and Ash Production
Mount Etna’s eruption, which commenced on 6 August
2026, has intensified with more energetic and sustained volcanic activity than prior episodes. Marco Viccaro, president of the Italian Volcanological Association, attributed increased ash production to deeper, gas-rich magma fueling a more efficient fragmentation process. This heightened ash output has been the primary cause of the severe disruption to air traffic at Catania airport.
Traveler Impact and Onward Transportation Issues
The closure affects thousands of passengers amid the peak summer holiday season. Travelers rerouted to Palermo airport have reported difficulties in securing onward transportation, with surging demand for buses and taxis exacerbating delays. Palermo airport operators acknowledged congestion caused by the influx of diverted flights, contributing
to further delays.
Official Statements and Regional Disruptions
SAC has reiterated all flights remain suspended at Catania airport until 2am on 14 August due to volcanic ash. Malta International Airport, 220 kilometers south of Mount Etna, also reported flight disruptions linked to Etna’s ash cloud, advising passengers on 11 August to verify flight statuses before travel.
