MORE eruptions from a volcano in Europe has resulted in sudden flight cancellations in Sicily today.
An ash cloud drifting into airspace means that flights cannot land or take off at Catania Airport on the Italian island.
Following an eruption over the weekend and change in wind direction, an ash cloud from Mount Etna has affected airspace in Sicily.
Due to safety reasons, flights departing and arriving into Catania Airport have been cancelled or delayed until 5pm local time.
Impacted airlines include Ryanair, EasyJet, and Wizz Air.
Operator SAC said: “Due to Etna’s eruptive activity and the associated release of volcanic ash into the atmosphere, the airspace corresponding to the ash cloud southwest of the volcano (Sector C1) has been closed. Arrivals are suspended until 5:00 PM.
“As the situation is significantly affecting operations, passengers are kindly advised to check the status of their flight with their airline before heading to the airport.
“The situation is being constantly monitored, and further updates will be provided depending on the evolution of volcanic activity and weather conditions.”
One Brit travelling home from Sicily over the weekend also faced disruption, he wrote on X: “Had a superb holiday in Sicily
“Getting home was interesting.. Catania flight cancelled due to Etna → 3hr taxi to Palermo → flight cancelled → slept at airport → Rome → taxi to Naples → Gatwick → taxi to Luton. Only a day late but very happy to be back at the nest.”
Palermo Airport, Sicily’s other major aviation hub located on the northwest coast, remains unaffected, with flights operating as scheduled.
It’s not the first time this year that there has been disruption at the airport following eruptions on Mount Etna.
Last month, the volcano erupted for 10 days leaving hundreds of passengers stranded in Sicily.
Holidaymakers had to seek hotel allocation, while others travelled elsewhere to get home.