Etna Volcano Eruption: Sicily Flight Chaos Explained

The Etna volcano disrupted air traffic across Sicily again on Sunday 27 September 2026, forcing Catania-Fontanarossa Airport to suspend all arrivals and departures until midnight. Dozens of aircraft were diverted to Palermo, Comiso and Trapani, leaving thousands of passengers stranded, including Dutch travellers whose KLM flights were cancelled and rebooked.

What is happening at Catania Airport?

Airport operator SAC closed Sicilian airspace over Catania after heavy ash emissions and unfavourable winds made flying unsafe. The ash clouds were clearly visible from the terminal, according to NOS, which reported that air traffic control halted operations until at least 23:59 on Sunday. The shutdown triggered a domino effect: Sicily airport diversions sent aircraft to already congested regional airports, and travellers described scenes of confusion and long queues. Flight tracking data showed at least 91 cancellations and 5 delays at Catania on 27 September, with more disruption expected as ash continued to drift over the runway.

Why does volcanic ash ground flights?

Volcanic ash contains tiny rock and glass particles that can melt inside jet engines at high temperatures, blocking fuel nozzles and causing engine failure. Ash also reduces visibility and can damage cockpit windows and navigation systems. Because Etna has been erupting almost continuously for weeks, Catania—located just 30 km from the summit—has faced repeated shutdowns. The 3,403-metre volcano, together with nearby Stromboli, is Europe's most active and covers about 1,190 km² with a basal circumference of 140 km. It has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a UN Decade Volcano because of its constant activity and nearby population.

Impact on travellers and airlines

KLM announced it had cancelled all weekend flights to Catania and rebooked passengers to another airport on the island. Italian authorities urged passengers not to travel to Catania terminal without first checking flight status. 'It was total chaos,' transport unions Filt Cgil, Fit Cisl and Uiltrasporti Sicilia said in a joint statement, criticising the lack of a permanent contingency plan for what they call a structural phenomenon. Meanwhile consumer group Acli Terra warned of flight fare speculation after a Verona–Palermo one-way ticket reportedly reached around €1,180. Passengers were advised to retain all documentation and monitor airline communications closely.

What are your rights if your flight is cancelled?

Under EU Regulation EC 261/2004, passengers are entitled to ground transfers to their booked destination, meals and hotel accommodation during extended waits. However, fixed cash compensation of €250–€600 is normally not payable because volcanic eruptions are considered extraordinary circumstances. Travellers should keep all boarding passes and receipts and contact their airline for rebooking options. Trenitalia's Fontanarossa rail link and SAIS/Interbus coaches provide alternative regional transit while airspace remains closed.

FAQ: Etna volcano flight disruption

How long will Catania Airport be closed?

Operations were suspended until at least 23:59 on 27 September 2026. Reopening depends on ash dispersal and wind direction, which INGV monitors around the clock.

Can I get compensation for a cancelled Etna flight?

You can claim duty-of-care support such as meals, hotels and transfers, but not fixed cash compensation, because volcanic ash is considered an extraordinary circumstance.

Where were flights diverted?

Aircraft were diverted mainly to Palermo, Comiso and Trapani airports on Sicily, all of which became congested as a result.

Is KLM flying to Catania?

KLM cancelled weekend flights to Catania and rebooked passengers to other Sicilian airports. Check the airline's website for the latest rebooking options.