Mount Etna ash cloud triggers red aviation alert

Mount Etna, Europe’s highest volcano, has triggered a red aviation alert following a continuous emission of volcanic ash. The ash cloud is estimated to have reached a height of approximately 4 kilometers above sea level and is moving in a southeasterly direction.

As a result of the increased alert level, authorities have immediately closed airspace sector B1. At Catania-Fontanarossa Airport, arrival capacity has been restricted to a maximum of 10 flights per hour, down from the standard 12, with these limitations expected to remain in place until 21:00 on Thursday, October 29.

The National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV) is continuously monitoring the activity using thermal and visual surveillance cameras. While the red alert signifies a significant risk to aviation, airport management (SAC) has reported no major critical issues or widespread disruptions to operations at this time.