New Fracture Opens on Mount Etna, Causing Explosion and Lava Flow

A new fracture has opened on Mount Etna, one of the world's most active volcanoes, triggering an explosion and a fresh flow of lava down its slopes.

The volcano, located on the Italian island of Sicily, has a long history of eruptions, and this latest activity has already begun to affect air traffic in the region.

Following the eruption, Catania airport, which lies close to Etna, has introduced new restrictions on incoming flights.

Under the new measures, only 10 flights per hour will be allowed to land at the airport.

The limitation is set to remain in force until 12 pm tomorrow, according to officials.

In addition to the airport restrictions, several air sectors around the volcano have been closed to flights.

Air sectors are designated areas of airspace used to manage the routes of aircraft.

Their closure is a common safety measure during volcanic eruptions, as volcanic ash clouds can pose serious risks to planes.

Fine particles of ash can damage jet engines and reduce visibility for pilots, making flying through affected airspace hazardous.

Authorities in the region are continuing to monitor the situation on Etna, which frequently produces explosive activity and lava flows.

The volcano's eruptions rarely cause major casualties, thanks to its remote summit area, but they regularly cause disruption to air travel serving Catania, one of Sicily's busiest airports.

It remains unclear how long the current restrictions will stay in place or whether further measures will be needed if the eruption continues or intensifies.

Travellers with flights to or from Catania have been advised to check with their airlines for updates, given the ongoing volcanic activity.

Mount Etna's frequent eruptions have made it a subject of close scientific study, as researchers seek to better understand and predict its behaviour.