Etna, pictured in 2021, is the tallest active volcano in Europe and has erupted frequently in the past 500,000 years

Etna Eruption Forces Closure Of Sicily's Catania Airport

Etna, pictured in 2021, is the tallest active volcano in Europe and has erupted frequently in the past 500,000 years

PAY ATTENTION: Flexible Payment Plans Available! Invest in Yourself & See the Return with Our Affordable Copywriting Course!

The airport at Catania in Sicily, a top Italian tourist destination, has halted all flights after a new eruption at nearby Mount Etna, its operator said Monday.

"Because of an eruption at Etna and falling ash, flights are suspended until 8:00 pm (1800 GMT)," the airport said on its website.

Earlier Monday, it had said departures and arrivals had been halted until just 1:00 pm.

Catania's Mayor Enrico Trantino has also prohibited the use of motorcycles and bicycles for the next 48 hours, "because several areas are covered with a layer of volcanic ash", city hall said on its website.

The ash can quickly become slippery on roads and increase the risk of accidents.

At 3,324 metres (nearly 11,000 feet), Etna is the tallest active volcano in Europe and has erupted frequently in the past 500,000 years.

PAY ATTENTION: Unlock exclusive features from TUKO.co.ke - join our membership!

Most recently, Catania airport was closed for a day on May 21 due to an eruption.

Around 10 million passengers last year transited through the airport, which serves the eastern part of Sicily.

Source: AFP

Faith Kipyegon Dedicates Budapest Gold To Her Husband: "He's Been Supportive"
Chinese Dad Crawls On Kitchen Counter After Daughter Requested For Cat As Pet
Kipchumba Murkomen: Gov't Engaging Matatu Owners To Revive Over KSh 54.9b Nairobi BRT System

Etna, pictured in 2021, is the tallest active volcano in Europe and has erupted frequently in the past 500,000 years
Etna, pictured in 2021, is the tallest active volcano in Europe and has erupted frequently in the past 500,000 years
Etna eruption forces closure of Sicily's Catania airport - eNCA
Etna eruption forces closure of Sicily's Catania airport - eNCA
Italy's Mount Etna Eruption Forces Closure Of Sicily Airport - CNN UK
Italy's Mount Etna Eruption Forces Closure Of Sicily Airport - CNN UK