Italy Faces Major Flight Disruptions as Air Traffic Controllers, Airline Crew, and Ground Staff Go on Strike Across Major Airports Tomorrow

For travelers planning festive trips, Italy is bracing for a wave of travel disruptions starting tomorrow.

Strikes involving air traffic controllers, ground staff, and airline crews are set to affect flights across the country, potentially causing headaches for thousands of passengers.

Who’s Striking and When

On December 17, multiple groups will walk out for a four-hour period from 1pm to 5pm.

This includes air traffic controllers at ENAV’s Rome control centre, airport ground handling crews, and airline staff from ITA Airways, Vueling, and EasyJet.

With millions preparing to travel for Christmas, these strikes could delay or cancel dozens of flights.

Airports Likely to Be Affected

Major airports including Milan, Rome, Venice, Naples, and Catania are expected to experience significant delays.

Even flights scheduled outside the official strike window may face disruptions as airports try to catch up with their backlog, meaning travelers could encounter long queues and delayed departures well into the evening.

What Passengers Need to Know About Their Rights

Ivalyo Danailov, CEO of flight compensation specialists SkyRefund, emphasizes that passengers should be aware of their entitlements under EU Regulation 261/2004.

He explains:

• Passengers are entitled to care and assistance, such as meals, refreshments, and hotel stays for overnight delays, regardless of the strike cause, if delays are significant.
• Eligibility for up to €600 (£525) in financial compensation depends on which staff members are striking.

Danailov also advises travelers to secure a full refund or alternative flights as early as possible, noting that EU law guarantees this right even if additional cash compensation is not available.

Guidance from Aviation Authorities

Selina Chadha, director of the consumer and markets group at the UK Civil Aviation Authority, highlighted that while flying during the holiday season is a cherished tradition, disruptions can occur.

She recommends passengers familiarize themselves with their rights to feel confident and prepared in case unexpected delays happen.

Wider European Strike Action

Italy is not alone in facing travel disruptions. Across Europe, strikes are affecting passengers in several countries:

• Scandinavian Airlines cabin crew at Heathrow are striking over the festive period, affecting flights.
• Portugal recently saw cancellations of flights and trains due to strike threats.
• France experienced a chaotic summer of airport strikes, causing widespread travel disruption.

Airline Responses

Airlines are taking steps to reduce the impact on passengers.

EasyJet reassured travelers that its Italy–UK flights are expected to operate normally, while Vueling has adjusted schedules and offered alternative options to minimize inconvenience.

Meanwhile, strikes planned for Italian staff at Air France-KLM have been cancelled.

Preparing for Travel

With Italy’s transport system under pressure, passengers are urged to check flight schedules, confirm alternative arrangements, and allow extra time at airports.

Staying informed about rights and airline updates is key to navigating travel during this busy holiday period.