Kathmandu— Sicily’s Catania airport halted all flight operations on Wednesday and will remain closed until at least 4 p.m. local time on Thursday, responding to renewed ash emissions from Mount Etna, one of Europe's most active volcanoes. The restrictions are impacting the peak summer holiday season, forcing airlines to divert or cancel flights and placing strain on other Sicilian airports. Airport authorities have advised passengers to check with their airlines for updates as conditions continue to evolve.

Flight Disruptions Widespread

The volcanic ash poses a risk to aircraft engines, prompting regulators to restrict airspace access over eastern Sicily. Travel disruptions began last Friday when shifting winds carried ash across the region, but the airspace was fully closed in recent days as Etna’s eruption persisted. Palermo's airport has absorbed approximately 190 flights originally destined for Catania, while Comiso airport resumed operations after a brief suspension on Tuesday.

Regional Impact Extends to Malta

The effects of the eruption are not limited to Sicily; volcanic ash drifted south across the Mediterranean Sea towards Malta, causing significant delays and some cancellations at Malta International Airport. While conditions were improving on Wednesday, passengers continued to receive warnings about potential disruptions.

Mount Etna: A History of Activity

Mount Etna is a roughly 3,400-meter (11,100 feet) stratovolcano located on Sicily’s eastern coast. Its height fluctuates with periods of activity, and it's in an almost constant state of low-level eruption. The volcano has caused disruptions at Catania airport multiple times in recent years. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Etna first became volcanically active approximately half a million years ago, and features prominently in both Roman and Greek mythology as the location of the forge of the god of blacksmithing.

Authorities continue to monitor Mount Etna’s activity and will provide further updates on flight operations as conditions change. Passengers are urged to remain vigilant and check with their airlines for the latest information.

(With inputs from DW)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.