Catania airport, Italy’s fifth-busiest by passenger traffic, has suspended all inbound and outbound flights through 2am local time on 14 August 2026 due to volcanic ash fallout from Mount Etna. The airport operator SAC confirmed the extension of the shutdown following a week of widespread cancellations and diversions affecting thousands of passengers during the peak summer holiday season.
Flight Diversions and Strains on Alternative Airports
Palermo airport absorbed 190 flights originally scheduled for Catania during the disruption, according to Palermo Mayor Roberto Lagalla. The increase in flights caused congestion and transportation difficulties, with passengers rerouted to Palermo facing high demand for buses and taxis after arrival, resulting
in delays. Comiso airport, a smaller Sicilian facility serving diverted flights, suspended operations on the evening of 11 August due to ash but resumed full service the following day on 12 August. The extended shutdown is placing extra strain on alternative airports across Sicily.
Mount Etna Volcanic Activity and Increased Ash Production
Mount Etna’s current eruptive phase began on 6 August 2026 and is notably more energetic and sustained than previous events. Marco Viccaro, president of the Italian Volcanological Association, explained the increase in ash production results from deeper, gas-rich magma intensifying fragmentation. He said, “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.” Mount Etna is Europe’s highest and most active volcano and regularly disrupts operations at Catania airport.
Disruptions Extend to Malta International Airport
The fallout from Mount Etna’s activity has also disrupted flights at Malta International Airport. Located 220 kilometers south of Etna, Malta International Airport experienced flight disturbances starting 11 August 2026. The airport issued a notice advising passengers to verify their flight status before traveling due to these disruptions in the Mediterranean Sea region.
Official Statements on Ongoing Flight Suspensions
SAC confirmed all flights at Catania will remain suspended
until 2am on 14 August, citing the ongoing volcanic ash hazard. Palermo Mayor Roberto Lagalla acknowledged Palermo airport’s absorption of diverted flights and noted the strain on local transportation. Malta International Airport publicly confirmed the effects of Etna’s ash on its operations. Marco Viccaro emphasized that the volcanic activity’s increased ash production is directly responsible for the severe interruption of air travel in the region.
