Flights at Catania international airport in Sicily have been halted following new activity by Mount Etna. The volcano, located on the Italian island, is emitting ash from its north-eastern crater, producing a volcanic cloud four kilometres tall.
Red code issued as ash moves towards city
The latest volcanic activity prompted the National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV) to issue a red code, the highest level, on its Volcano Observatory Notice for Aviation (VONA) scale. As the ash moved towards the city of Catania, where the Vincenzo Bellini airport is located, authorities ordered the suspension of all departures and arrivals at least until 4pm local time (3pm BST) on Saturday.
Flights diverted or grounded
The disruption has caused flights to be diverted elsewhere or grounded. The situation is being monitored as volcanic activity continues.
