Catania and Comiso airports have been shut down due to a recent eruption of Mount Etna volcano.
The eruption caused an ash cloud to spread over the southeastern part of Sicily and the Mediterranean.
The closure led to the cancellation of a 6am flight from Malta to Catania. Flights bound for Malta were being redirected to avoid the ash cloud.
Catania airport has announced plans to resume operations by 1pm.
The eruption resulted in ash falling on Rifugio Sapienza, a popular location on Mount Etna often visited by Maltese travelers.
This closure of Catania airport follows its recent return to full operation, which occurred after a phased reopening subsequent to a significant terminal fire in mid-July.
#MaltaDaily