Travelers flying in and out of Italy should brace for turbulence of a different kind this week. On Friday, September 26, a nationwide air transport strike is expected to disrupt travel plans just as the weekend begins.
The 24-hour walkouts have been called by CUB Trasporti and USB, two of Italy’s largest grassroots unions, in protest over pay and working conditions.
Who’s Striking?
The strike will involve not only airline crews but also airport staff, meaning both flight operations and ground services will be affected. Among the worst-hit hubs will be Milan’s Linate and Malpensa airports.
Here’s how the disruption breaks down:
- Baggage handlers (Assohandlers): walking out from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Drivers at Milan’s airports: striking for the entire day
- Security staff at Sardinia’s Cagliari Elmas Airport: walking out for 24 hours
- Pilots and cabin crew from Volotea and Wizz Air Malta: also on a 24-hour strike, citing low pay and poor working conditions
What Travelers Need to Know
A strike doesn’t mean every flight will be canceled. Italy’s civil aviation authority, ENAC, requires airlines to operate during certain “guaranteed service” windows:
- 7 a.m. – 10 a.m.
- 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Flights scheduled within these times must still take off.
However, outside of those hours, travelers should expect delays and cancellations. The best advice:
- Check directly with your airline before leaving for the airport
- Allow extra travel time in case of long lines or sudden schedule changes
More Strikes Ahead
Friday’s strike isn’t an isolated event. Italy is entering a wave of transport strikes that could cause headaches for travelers well into October:
- Nationwide rail strike: from 9 p.m. on Oct. 2 to 9 p.m. on Oct. 3
- Airport staff strikes: planned for Oct. 13 at Rome Fiumicino, Pisa, and Florence airports
- Swissport Italia ground handlers at Milan Linate: scheduled to walk out again on Oct. 29
Staying Prepared
If you’re planning to travel in Italy during this period, keep a close eye on official updates. The Italian transport ministry’s strike calendar is the best resource for real-time information.
✈️ Bottom line: With multiple strikes lined up, flexibility is key. Reconfirm your flight before departure, build extra time into your journey, and have a backup plan — because Italy’s travel disruptions are only just beginning.
