CATANIA — Flights at Catania airport, on the southern Italian island of Sicily, are suspended until Wednesday.

A fire broke out at Catania's Vincenzo Bellini International Airport on Sunday night. Firefighters were called to put out the blaze and the airport was evacuated.

Nobody was injured but there are reports of people being treated for smoke inhalation and shock.

It was initially announced that the airport would be closed until Monday morning. However, this has now been revised.

Airport authorities have announced that flights are suspended until Wednesday at 2 pm.

It is not yet clear if this means all or only some flights.

Some incoming flights are being diverted to other airports in Sicily such as Palermo, Trapani and Comiso.

Comiso airport is a two-hour drive from Catania airport; both are on the east of the island. Whereas Palermo and Trapani are on the west of the island therefore four-five hours drive from Catania.

Public transport, even between cities, is limited in Sicily.

It is not yet clear whether passengers will receive compensation or help with unexpected costs.

Although the fire has been extinguished, the departures terminal, where the fire broke out, is still filled with smoke.

The fire started on the ground floor of the airport and spread to the departures terminal which is on the second floor.

At the time of writing, Catania airport's official website did not have any news or advice for passengers.

Italy's ITA Airways has issued a statement to passengers, saying: "Due to a fire, Catania airport will be closed until 14.00 on 19/7. There are also very significant cancellations and delays. Please check your flight status on Flight Info before travelling to the airport."

Ryanair have said: "All passengers who have been affected by a cancellation or an airport change will be notified of their options."

If your flight is cancelled, the first step is to contact your airline or booking agent to discuss rebooking or a refund.

Other European airlines have been contacted for comment.

Italy is currently in the grips of a major heatwave. Palermo, Sicily's biggest city, is one of 16 Italian cities with heat warnings in place. Temperatures are forecast to rise to 48°C later this week. — Euronews