Sizilien: Ätna-Ausbruch sorgt für Einschränkungen im Flugverkehr

Catania, Italy - The eruption of Mount Etna has halted air travel on the Mediterranean island of Sicily, with its conclusion uncertain, according to a volcanologist. For the island of Sizilien, the effects are far-reaching, as the Catania Airport remains closed. "We cannot know how long Mount Etna's activity will continue," stated Stefano Branca, Director of the Volcanology Department at the National Institute for Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV).

While the onset of an eruption can be predicted through monitoring systems, its end remains unpredictable, he added. Due to the heavy ash emissions, all flights at the Catania Airport are currently grounded. The airport authority extended the flight ban again on Wednesday evening, until 2 AM on Friday. Further extensions are not ruled out if the volcano does not settle down soon.

The tourism sector has already felt the impact, with estimated economic losses ranging from 12 to 24 million euros due to flight cancellations, delays, and diversions. Since the eruption began last Friday, hundreds of flights have been affected, resulting in tens of thousands of travelers having to reschedule. Branca noted that the eruptive activity is "slightly receding," but emphasized the uncertainty: "The only certainty is that there are no certainties."

The airport operator and INGV maintain close contact, with authorities deciding on closures based on wind direction and ash concentration in the air, often at very short notice. On-site at the Catania Airport, the situation has calmed down compared to the chaotic days of the past. Many passengers check their flight status before arriving at the airport, and transfers to other Sicilian airports are being organized.

However, long queues continue to form at information counters. Some people even stay overnight on-site, waiting for updates.