Global Affairs Canada has amended its Travel Advice for Italy, warning Canadian travellers of potential flight cancellations and diversions caused by ash clouds from Mount Etna’s latest eruption. The advisory, updated at 10:35 ET on 14 September 2026, urges passengers to confirm flight status before heading to the airport and to expect heightened security and congestion at major transport hubs. Sicily’s Catania and Palermo airports experienced temporary closures earlier in the week, forcing carriers—including Air Canada codeshare partners—to re-route aircraft via Rome and Naples. Corporate travel managers should re-issue duty-of-care notices reminding staff to maintain flexible itineraries and secure accommodation in mainland Italy if onward travel is delayed. The advisory also reminds Canadians that visa-free Schengen stays remain capped at 90 days in any 180-day period and flags the forthcoming European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), expected to launch in 2027. Mobility teams may wish to incorporate ETIAS registration steps into pre-trip checklists well ahead of the system’s go-live date.
Source: Travel.gc.ca
