SENNA

New Sicilian Airline Etna Sky Takes on Budget Carriers

In a move that could shake up air travel in Sicily, a new regional airline called Etna Sky is set to take flight next summer, promising "super special prices" for local residents. The venture is the brainchild of Manlio Messina, a former regional government minister and current member of the Italian parliament.

Messina, who previously served as an assessor for the tourism industry during the pandemic, announced the plan in a social media post. He said the new carrier will offer competitively-priced flights, allowing Sicilians to avoid paying "as much for a Catania-Milan ticket as a Milan-New York one."

While details on the airline's backers remain under wraps, industry sources indicate Etna Sky is being developed by a consortium of local entrepreneurs. The company's name pays homage to Sicily's iconic Mount Etna volcano.

Messina's announcement comes as Sicily's air travel market remains dominated by low-cost carriers like Ryanair and easyJet. The new entrant will likely seek to undercut these rivals on key domestic routes, providing a more affordable option for Sicilian residents and potentially stimulating increased travel to and from the island.

"Sicilians have long complained about the high cost of flights, which can be a barrier to connectivity and economic development," said one industry analyst who requested anonymity. "If Etna Sky can truly deliver on its promise of 'super special prices,' it could disrupt the status quo and give consumers more choice."

The analyst noted that the timing of Etna Sky's launch, slated for next summer, suggests the airline may be aiming to capitalize on pent-up demand for travel as the COVID-19 pandemic subsides. However, they cautioned that the competitive landscape remains challenging, with major low-cost carriers entrenched in the market.

Still, the prospect of a homegrown Sicilian airline has generated buzz on social media, with Messina's post drawing hundreds of enthusiastic comments from residents eager for more affordable air links. The lawmaker's political connections and experience in the tourism industry could also help Etna Sky navigate regulatory hurdles and secure necessary approvals.

As Etna Sky prepares for takeoff, industry observers will be watching closely to see if the upstart can deliver on its pledge to provide Sicilians with a more cost-effective air travel option. The outcome could have significant implications for the region's connectivity and economic prospects in the years ahead.