Active volcano. Photo: Shutterstock Flight operations at Catania–Fontanarossa Airport have resumed after authorities downgraded the alert level for Mount Etna's volcanic activity, allowing aircraft to return to normal operations.
Earlier on Friday, August 7, the airport temporarily suspended IFR (Instrument Flight Rules) arriving flights until 12:00 p.m. local time due to ash emissions from Etna and prevailing wind conditions. Departures continued to operate during the disruption, while passengers were urged to check with their airlines before traveling to the airport.
To help stranded travelers, Trenitalia introduced additional rail services, including a special non-stop train from Palermo Aeroporto to Palermo Centrale and an onward service to Catania via Messina with around 500 available seats.
Later in the day, airport authorities confirmed that the volcanic activity alert had been downgraded from RED to ORANGE, enabling the immediate resumption of flight operations.
As a result, affected airspace sectors have reopened and aircraft are once again permitted to land at Catania Airport.
Despite the return to normal operations, passengers are still advised to verify their flight status directly with their airline, as some delays and schedule adjustments may continue while airlines restore normal operations.
Mount Etna, Europe's most active volcano, frequently affects air traffic in eastern Sicily when volcanic ash drifts toward Catania Airport, forcing temporary restrictions to ensure flight safety.