Kathmandu— Arrivals at Catania international airport were suspended on Saturday after Mount Etna released a new plume of smoke and ash into the atmosphere. The volcanic activity necessitated the closure of airspace corresponding to the ash cloud, though departures for aircraft already at the airport remained operational.

Flight Disruptions in Sicily

Catania international airport, a primary hub for Italy's eastern Sicily region and a key gateway for tourism, implemented the suspension to ensure safety during the eruptive event. In a statement, airport officials noted that all arriving flights were halted until 12:00 local time due to the associated release of volcanic ash.

While incoming flights faced delays, the airport confirmed that departures for aircraft already on the ground were operating normally.

Volcanic Activity and Monitoring

Mount Etna, standing at 3,324 metres, remains one of the world's most active volcanoes and is the tallest active volcano in Europe. Real-time monitoring by the National Institute for Geophysics and Volcanology captured plumes of smoke billowing from the summit.

The volcano has a long history of activity, having erupted frequently over the past half-million years. Recent months have seen increasingly intense eruption activity, leading to the implementation of tough restrictions and ash advisories since last July.

Tensions Over Safety Restrictions

The ongoing activity has created friction with local tourism operators. In January, guides staged demonstrations at the volcano's lava flow gate to protest restrictions on excursions to view the lava.

Protesters argued that the new safety measures were excessive, claiming that the lava flows are slow-moving enough to be viewed safely, as has been done previously. However, the National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology confirmed in January that while eruptions are ongoing, the lava fronts are cooling and not advancing further.

The airport's arrival suspension was scheduled to lift by midday local time.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.