Mount Etna ash blows into sky causing 'red alert' as flights are grounded

Dramatic pictures showed ash and smoke clouds billowing into the sky in Sicily, prompting a major 'red alert' with flights grounded.

All flights were suspended from Catania International Airport, one of Italy's busiest, on Monday afternoon (14 September), which then continued into Tuesday.

This was due to emissions from Etna, Europe's tallest active volcano which erupts frequently.

The recent eruption caused experts at the Etna Volcano Observatory to issue a red VONA (Volcano Observatory Notice to Aviation) alert for the ash cloud, which stretched over two miles into the sky.

Flights were also cancelled last month over similar issues, as airport operator SAC said 36 percent of flights to Catania were cancelled between 6 and 12 August, with more than 600 flights diverted.

This meant it was closed for almost a week during the peak summer season due to the volcanic activity.

In a statement on its website on Tuesday, Catania said there would be regular updates over the ash cloud, while also reminding passengers due to fly from Catania to check with their airline for updates.

Mount Etna erupts several times every year, making it the most active volcano in Europe.

The Foreign Office said in a statement to travellers: "Flights are currently affected by ash cloud from Mount Etna. Check with your travel provider or Catania airport before travelling."

At least 150 flights were cancelled causing mayhem for passengers, with departures and arrivals both impacted it. Incoming flights had been diverted throughout the day.

As of 7pm Tuesday evening, flights resumed with the volcanic alert downgraded from red to orange, the airport confirmed.

A public statement read: "Following the downgrade of the volcanic activity alert level from RED to ORANGE, the reopening of sectors C1 and B3 has been ordered.

"Flight operations departing and arriving at Catania Airport have resumed with immediate effect.

"Passengers are advised to check the status of their flight with their airlines before heading to the airport."