Photo: Shutterstock Catania Airport has extended restrictions on flights as Mount Etna continues to erupt, with volcanic ash and prevailing wind conditions affecting airspace around the volcano.
In an update issued on Wednesday, August 12, the airport said the previous closure of Sector B3 has been extended, "resulting in the suspension of arrivals and departures until 4:00 PM, August 13, because of Etna’s ongoing eruptive activity and current wind conditions.
"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."
Passengers with flights to Catania today should therefore avoid heading to the airport based solely on their original schedule and instead confirm the latest information with their airline.
The airport's decision to continue allowing departures while suspending arrivals reflects the changing operational conditions around Etna. Authorities will continue monitoring the situation and may adjust restrictions depending on volcanic activity, ash dispersion and wind conditions.