UK travellers face ongoing disruption as Mount Etna activity persists
A prolonged eruptive phase of Mount Etna, which began on the 8th of September 2026 during the late-summer holiday period, has continued to impact travel to and from Sicily. Ongoing volcanic activity and ash emissions have caused disruption to flights operating between the UK and Catania Airport, affecting thousands of passengers.
Flight compensation and leading air passenger rights group, AirHelp, has analysed passenger data to reveal the significant impact this has had on UK passengers. Between the 8th of September and 1st of October, 44% of flights operating between the UK and Catania experienced either delays or cancellations. Flights from Catania to the UK were even more severely impacted during the same period, with 68.1% of services affected.
Of the UK to Catania flights affected, 29% were delayed by at least 15 minutes, 16% by more than one hour, 12% by more than two hours and 9% by more than three hours, while 14% were cancelled altogether.
For flights operating from Catania to the UK, 48% were delayed by at least 15 minutes, 17% by more than one hour, 7% by more than two hours and 4% by more than three hours. A further 20% of services were cancelled.
Tomasz Pawliszyn, CEO of AirHelp said: “The disruption caused by Mount Etna’s recent volcanic activity highlights the impact unexpected natural events can have on air travel, with flights often delayed, diverted or cancelled at short notice.
“Under Regulation (EC) No 261/2004 and its UK equivalent, UK Air Passenger Rights Regulation (UK261), passengers departing from or within the UK and EU are entitled to certain protections when their journeys are disrupted. This includes the right to care, such as meals, refreshments and accommodation where necessary, as well as the option of re-routing or receiving a refund in the event of a cancellation.
“While disruption arising from volcanic activity is typically considered an ‘extraordinary circumstance’, meaning compensation may not be payable, airlines are still required to assist affected travellers. Passengers should keep hold of booking confirmations, travel documents and receipts for any reasonable expenses incurred during the disruption.
“Understanding the support available can help passengers navigate unexpected disruption and make informed decisions when travel plans are affected.”
For more information on passenger rights, visit: https://www.airhelp.co.uk/
