Closure of Catania and Comiso Airports Due to Etna Eruption: What to Know and How to Act

Closure of Catania and Comiso Airports: What is Happening

Catania-Fontanarossa Airport (CTA) and Comiso Airport (CIY) are currently closed due to a new eruption of Mount Etna. Ash and atmospheric conditions resulting from volcanic activity prevent the safe conduct of flight operations.

This situation has led to the halt of numerous flights with significant cancellations and delays, causing inconvenience to many passengers. Local and airport authorities are continuously monitoring the situation to reopen the airports as soon as possible.

Flights and Airports at Risk

If you have a flight departing from or arriving at:

• Catania-Fontanarossa Airport (CTA)
• Comiso Airport (CIY)

your trip could be affected by significant cancellations or delays. It is advisable to check the flight status with the airline or through the official airport channels.

Passenger Rights Under EU Regulation 261

Regulation (EC) No 261/2004 protects passengers in cases of flight cancellations and delays within the European Union. However, when the service disruption is caused by exceptional circumstances such as natural disasters or extreme weather conditions – like the current volcanic eruption – airlines are exempt from the obligation to pay financial compensation.

What does this mean in practice?

• You are entitled to assistance: meals, beverages, hotel accommodation if necessary, and alternative transportation.
• Airlines will do their best to rebook you on the next available flight.
• No financial compensation is due for cancellations caused by force majeure events such as the eruption.

Practical Advice for Passengers

Here’s what to do if your flight departs from or arrives at CTA or CIY during this critical period:

1. Regularly check your flight status

   • Use the official airport or airline websites and apps.
   • You can also conveniently check your flight on FlightGuard.

2. Consider travel alternatives

   • If possible, consider flights from nearby unaffected airports (for example, Palermo airport).
   • Take advantage of train or road transport if feasible.

3. At the airport

   • Contact information points and the airline’s customer service desk.
   • Prepare for possible long waits and organize your comfort with snacks and water.

4. Documentation and Contacts

   • Keep all communications and receipts of expenses incurred for any refund requests or after-sales assistance.

Sources

• Catania Airport Still Closed Due to Etna Eruption, Comiso Also Stopped: Flights Canceled and Disruptions - firstonline.info

Want to know if your next flight is at risk? Check your flight risk on FlightGuard.