Italy’s major airports have faced widespread flight cancellations and delays due to a combination of nationwide strikes and a fire that broke out on Wednesday morning. The strike was organized by airport handling staff in response to ongoing disputes over pay and working conditions. As a result, airports such as Milan Malpensa, Rome Fiumicino, Naples, Catania, and Venice have had to cancel flights, with some international flights operated by ITA Airways being affected. The strike also impacted regional train services in the Lombardy region.
Ciampino Airport in Rome was forced to suspend all flights after a small fire broke out in a technical room at the base of the control tower. While the fire has been extinguished, the cause is still unknown. The airport, which is frequently used by budget airlines, including Ryanair, has not reported any damage to equipment necessary for operating the control tower. Passengers traveling through Italy have been advised to check the status of their flights before heading to the airport, as more cancellations could occur throughout the day.
The strikes in Italy have been organized by unions demanding better working hours, higher wages, and additional benefits for ground staff. These disputes have led to disruptions in airport logistics, potentially causing delays in luggage delivery for passengers. In addition to the aviation strikes, railway workers in the Lombardy region organized a separate strike action due to unresolved issues related to labor regulations and financial compensation. Services affected by the strike include regional, suburban, airport, and long-distance trains. Trenord, the regional railway company, has arranged for buses to operate between Milan Cadorna and Malpensa Airport for any airport shuttle trains that are cancelled.
Passengers affected by flight cancellations or delays due to the strikes may be entitled to compensation under EU law. Airlines are required to offer refunds or alternative flights if a flight is cancelled, and passengers may also be eligible for refunds for additional expenses incurred during delays, such as food and accommodation. Rail passengers within the EU are also entitled to compensation for delays or cancellations, with options for full or partial refunds depending on the circumstances. It is recommended that passengers contact their airline or rail company to initiate the refund process, although delays in receiving the compensation may occur.
Overall, the combination of nationwide strikes and a fire in Italy’s major airports has led to significant disruptions in air travel and train services. Passengers traveling through Italy are advised to check the status of their flights and make alternative arrangements if necessary. The ongoing disputes over pay and working conditions for airport and railway staff have resulted in delays and cancellations, underscoring the importance of understanding passenger rights and entitlements under EU law when facing travel disruptions.
