The Italian Civil Aviation Authority (ENAC) has granted approval to reopen the main terminal at Catania airport in Sicily, according to a statement released on the airport’s website. The terminal had been closed for almost three weeks after a fire broke out.
Speaking about ENAC’s decision, Sicilian regional governor Renato Schifani said, “This order allows the airport to return immediately, as of this evening, to normal conditions.”
The fire, which occurred on July 16, only affected a small part of the airport but led to significant disruption for both tourists and residents in the area surrounding Mount Etna. Catania airport serves as a key transportation hub for the eastern region of Sicily and attracts more arrivals than the capital city of Palermo.
To accommodate passengers during the closure, the airport operated at reduced capacity through a smaller terminal. Tent-like structures were also erected to handle the passenger flow. Fortunately, there were no casualties as a result of the fire, and the cause is still under investigation.
Governor Schifani emphasized the importance of the airport’s return to full operation, stating that it provides a guarantee for the entire Sicilian tourism sector. He also mentioned that the regional government will continue to support the sector in collaboration with the national government.
Catania airport is a popular choice for tourists visiting the resort town of Taormina, which is approximately 70 kilometers (43.5 miles) away, as well as Siracusa, known for its Greek Theatre.
Angelo Amante reported this story, and David Holmes provided the editing.
Credit: The Star : News Feed
