Catania airport suspends operations due to Mount Etna eruption

Catania Airport in Sicily suspended all arrivals and departures on September 14, 2026, following a significant increase in volcanic activity from Mount Etna. The eruption has blanketed the region in ash and thick smoke, forcing airport authorities to halt operations indefinitely to ensure air traffic safety, as a RED aviation alert was issued for the area.

This disruption follows a similar week-long closure that occurred during the peak of the summer season this past August. Serving approximately 12 million passengers annually, the airport’s frequent closures have sparked a national debate in Italy, with various stakeholders calling for the permanent closure of this facility and the expansion of other Sicilian airports to better handle regional traffic. Standing at 3,324 meters, Mount Etna remains Europe's most active volcano, frequently impacting local travel and infrastructure.