Mount Etna Eruption Disrupts Flights and Strands Israeli Tourists in Sicily

Mount Etna, one of Europe's most active volcanoes, erupted unusually on the morning of June 13, 2024, causing significant disruptions in Sicily, Italy. The eruption led to the closure of the airspace around the volcano and halted incoming and outgoing flights at Catania Airport. Israeli tourists reported that an Israir flight scheduled to arrive at 8 a.m. in Catania was canceled due to the volcanic activity.

The eruption forced dozens of tourists to flee the mountain as a massive plume of hot gases, volcanic ash, and rocks rose several kilometers into the sky. Italian authorities confirmed that all tourists and hikers present on the mountain at the time were safely evacuated. Although ash is not expected to reach the city of Catania, some flights destined for Catania were diverted to Palermo, canceled, or remain pending.

Authorities closed roads leading to Mount Etna to prevent visitors from approaching the eruption zone and to allow emergency services to operate without interference. Israir stated it is in continuous contact with airport authorities, awaiting updated instructions, and prioritizes passenger and crew safety. The airline hopes to resume flights to and from the affected area as soon as conditions permit, providing ongoing updates to affected passengers.

This volcanic event has caused widespread travel disruptions and left hundreds of Israeli tourists stranded on the island of Sicily, highlighting the challenges posed by natural disasters to international travel and tourism in the region.