Catania Airport Privatization Plan Sparks Political Debate in Sicily

Sicily’s mayor, Enrico Trantino, announced a proposal to sell a majority stake—estimated between 51% and 65%—in SAC, the company that runs Catania and Comiso airports. He described the move as an “extraordinary opportunity” that would bring private capital to modernise the facilities quickly, while assuring that public‑sector safeguards would remain. The municipal council extended the deadline for expressions of interest from 3 June to 15 June and intends to set up a special commission to monitor the transition.

Five‑star Movement councillors Paolo Ciancio and Maria Bonaccorsi opposed the plan, arguing that the sale lacks transparency, excludes unions and local stakeholders, and risks handing a strategic asset to private profit. They called for an immediate suspension of the procedure and for an institutional table that includes all interested parties, noting that the current majority shareholder is under a regional commissioner appointed by President Renato Schifani.