Mount Etna volcanic ash cloud disrupts flights from Sicily and Malta

Flights at Catania Airport in Sicily and in Malta face ongoing disruption due to the latest eruption of Mount Etna.

The Foreign Office warned in an updated travel advisory that flights are currently affected by an ash cloud from Mount Etna. 

“Check with your travel provider or Catania Airport before travelling,” travellers were advised.

A Catania Airport statement said that arrivals and departures would be suspended until 11am local time today (Wednesday) “due to Etna’s eruptive activity and current wind conditions”.

It added: “Passengers are kindly advised to check the status of their flight with their airline before heading to the airport.

“Further updates will follow in the coming hours.”

Catania Airport has been affected by Etna’s volcanic activity in February and early July.

Malta International Airport said on Tuesday that it was facing flight disruptions on due to volcanic ash clouds over the Maltese islands following recent activity at Mount Etna.

“Passengers are advised to check the status of their flight before travelling to the airport,” a statement said.

Passengers whose flights have been cancelled or significantly delayed are advised not to come to the airport unless they are instructed to by their airline.

“We apologise for any inconvenience caused and thank passengers for their understanding and co-operation.”