Etna eruption forces renewed closure of Catania airport

Alternatives for travellers

The closure of the airport hits Sicily during what was already a strained travel period. Those who cannot reach Catania by air frequently switch to Palermo. Palermo airport is also located on the island, but is difficult to reach from Catania by land.

As can be seen from the available information, the direct rail connection between Catania and Palermo is interrupted due to construction work. On the longer route via Messina, the trains are, according to the report, "completely overcrowded": "Die direkte Zugverbindung zwischen Catania und Palermo ist wegen Bauarbeiten unterbrochen, die Züge der längeren Verbindung über Messina sind komplett überfüllt." As a result, travellers currently lack a comfortable rail alternative.

The operating company SAC is coordinating the measures at Catania airport and is in contact with the airlines. An official announcement regarding possible compensation or expanded diversion options was initially not published. Travellers were asked to check with their airlines about the current status of their bookings.

The Sicilian region is experiencing a cluster of volcanic activity this summer. In connection with previous incidents at the airport, SAC had already had to restrict flight operations several times in recent weeks when ash clouds affected the airspace over Catania.

Background: Etna and its activity

Etna lies only a few kilometres north of Catania and towers over the city at a height of more than 3,300 metres. Its behaviour is closely monitored by the Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV). The authorities do not classify the current eruption as exceptionally dangerous, but point to the importance of the airspace closures.

For travel traffic, the situation means that flight schedules must be adjusted at short notice and capacity on the rail line via Messina is barely sufficient. Travellers are advised to obtain up-to-date information directly from airport operator SAC, from the booked airline, or from the regional transport authorities before setting off.

What travellers should do now

At the same time, the authorities emphasised that the immediate vicinity of the volcano remains accessible for tourist visits under professional guidance, as far as the security situation allows. According to reports from mountain guides, the lava streams are currently particularly visible at night.

It remains unclear how long the closure will last beyond Friday morning. SAC announced that it would continuously assess the situation and communicate further decisions regarding the resumption of flight operations in a timely manner.