Etna on red alert as volcanic ash heads toward southern Italy, threatening flights

Authorities in Sicily have reinstated the red aviation alert after the craters at the summit of Mount Etna began releasing volcanic ash, once again raising concerns in the area.

A new VONA (Volcano Observatory Notice for Aviation) bulletin was issued by the Etneo Observatory of the National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV), which raised the aviation color code to red. The institute’s network of visual and thermal cameras is being used to continuously monitor the ash emissions.

Preliminary data indicate that the activity has not produced a high eruption column. However, winds are carrying the ash released into the atmosphere toward the south.

The possible impact on air traffic is currently the main focus of attention. Assessments are expected on the consequences the ash emissions could have for the airspace around Catania-Fontanarossa Airport.

INGV specialists are closely monitoring the situation, which remains dynamic. Air traffic in the area could be affected by any change in volcanic activity or in the direction in which the ash spreads.