Etna Volcano Erupts: Flights Halted at Catania Airport

The recent eruption of Mount Etna in Sicily has caused a volcanic ash cloud to spread over the airspace surrounding Catania Airport, resulting in the temporary suspension of flights. The airport operator, SAC, announced that flights will be grounded until 15:00 GMT on Monday. SAC urged passengers to check the status of their flights with their airlines before heading to the airport. Etna is known as one of the most active volcanoes in the world and frequently disrupts air traffic. The Italian National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV) reported that the latest eruption phase is ongoing at altitudes of 2,750 and 2,360 meters. The eruptions have fed several lava flows, resulting in the formation of extensive lava fields. The Aviation Volcanic Ash Advisory (VONA) issued by INGV remains at the highest level of "red", indicating a continued threat to aviation from volcanic ash emissions.