KM Malta Airlines warns of last-minute Catania cancellations during Etna eruption

KM Malta Airlines has warned of possible last-minute flight cancellations to Catania as Mount Etna’s ongoing volcanic activity continues to disrupt operations.

Mount Etna began spewing lava and releasing a large cloud of volcanic ash over eastern Sicily last week, prompting authorities to raise the aviation alert to red and disrupting operations at Catania Bellini Airport.

On Monday, Catania Airport announced that all arriving flights had been suspended until at least 5pm.

Arrivals were also temporarily suspended on Saturday due to volcanic ash clouds, before resuming later that afternoon as conditions improved.

While affirming that it is working closely with Catania Airport to maintain scheduled services whenever possible, KM Malta Airlines said volcanic activity, prevailing winds and weather conditions can change rapidly and with very little notice.

The airline said it makes every effort to inform affected passengers as early as possible, but warned that conditions can deteriorate or operational restrictions can be introduced at short notice, forcing flights to be delayed or cancelled close to their scheduled departure time.

KM Malta Airlines acknowledged the inconvenience and uncertainty caused by such late changes, but insisted it would not hesitate to cancel a flight if changing volcanic or weather conditions posed a potential safety risk.

“Where sufficient advance information is available, we make every effort to inform affected passengers as early as possible,” the airline said. “The safety of our passengers and crew is our overriding priority.”

It added that its operational teams will continue working closely with Catania Airport and the relevant authorities to maximise opportunities to operate scheduled services safely while conditions remain volatile.