Catania airport in Sicily remains closed with all inbound and outbound flights suspended until 2am local time on 14 August 2026 due to ash from Mount Etna’s ongoing volcanic activity that began on 6 August 2026. SAC, the operator of Catania airport, confirmed the extended shutdown following a week of widespread flight cancellations and diversions caused by ash from deeper, gas-rich magma increasing ash production.
Flight Cancellations and Diversions Impact Sicilian Air Traffic
Palermo airport absorbed 190 flights originally scheduled for Catania over recent days, according to Palermo Mayor Roberto Lagalla. Comiso airport suspended flights on the evening of 11 August 2026 due to ash but resumed full
operations on 12 August. Malta International Airport, located approximately 220 kilometers south of Mount Etna, experienced disruptions attributed to volcanic ash on 11 August 2026.
Official Statements on Volcanic Activity and Airport Disruptions
SAC confirmed all flights at Catania airport remain halted until 2am on 14 August 2026. Palermo Mayor Roberto Lagalla noted Palermo airport’s challenges absorbing diverted flights, with increased demand for buses and taxis causing delays. Marco Viccaro, president of the Italian Volcanological Association, stated, “This suggests that deeper, gas-rich magma is playing a more active role, making the fragmentation process more efficient and leading to increased ash production, which is severely disrupting air traffic to
and from Catania airport.”
Passenger Impact and Travel Advisories
Thousands of travelers have faced cancellations, diversions, and delays amid the peak summer holiday season. Passengers rerouted to Palermo reported inadequate onward transportation options and congestion. Malta International Airport urged passengers to check flight status due to ash-related disruptions. Travelers scheduled for Catania airport are advised to confirm flight information directly with airlines before traveling.
Mount Etna’s Role and Seasonal Travel Pressure
Mount Etna, Europe’s highest and most active volcano, has been active since 6 August 2026, regularly disrupting operations at Catania airport, Italy’s fifth-busiest by passenger traffic. The ongoing ash hazards from this deeper magma activity have intensified flight suspensions at the
airport, coinciding with Italy’s peak summer holiday travel. SAC has recently launched the sale of a stake of at least 51% in Catania airport, reflecting its strategic importance despite recurring volcanic disruptions.
