Stay up to date with notifications from The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged inAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleMount Etna, Europe's largest active volcano, erupted, emitting towering plumes of ash and leading to the suspension of all flights at Catania Airport, Sicily's busiest aviation hub. Catania Airport announced the suspension of all arriving and departing flights until 2pm on Monday, 6 July, after volcanic activity overnight prompted Italy’s Volcano Observatory Notice for Aviation (VONA) to issue a red alert for ash clouds. Major airlines such as easyJet, Ryanair, Jet2, British Airways, and Wizz Air experienced numerous cancellations and diversions, impacting both European and some transatlantic flights to and from Catania. Passengers were urged to check their flight status before travelling to Catania Airport, as many flights were diverted to Palermo Airport, Sicily's other major hub, and smaller airports like Cosimo and Trapani. While airlines are obligated to provide accommodation and meals for cancelled flights, passengers are unlikely to receive financial compensation for disruptions caused by natural events like volcanic eruptions. In fullFlights cancelled at Italian airport after Mount Etna eruptionMore bulletinsThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in