Mount Etna Eruption Disrupts Flights and Strands Israeli Tourists in Sicily

Mount Etna, one of Europe's most active volcanoes located in eastern Sicily, has been erupting continuously for ten days since June 26. The eruption has produced significant ash clouds rising up to 1.5 kilometers above the crater, prompting Italian authorities to issue a red alert and temporarily close Catania Airport and the surrounding airspace, including the area above the US Sigonella Air Base.

The volcanic activity has caused flight cancellations and diversions, with at least 17 flights rerouted from Catania to Palermo, Sicily's largest city. Israeli airline Israir reported ongoing communication with airport authorities and announced that a flight originally scheduled from Israel to Catania will instead depart to Palermo early the next morning. Passengers will then be transported by shuttle to Catania. Return flights from Catania to Israel will also operate from Palermo. Israir confirmed that affected passengers have been provided with hotel accommodations, dinner, breakfast, and organized transfers.

Despite the disruptions, no significant damage or injuries have been reported so far. Italian authorities continue to monitor the volcanic activity closely. Mount Etna, standing approximately 3,300 meters tall, is known for frequent eruptions featuring lava flows, ash emissions, and powerful explosions at its summit.