Air travel across Italy is braced for severe disruption as a wave of strikes is set to hit the country's transport network, threatening the Christmas plans of thousands of passengers.
Strike Details and Impact on Flights
The industrial action will take place on Wednesday, December 17, with a critical four-hour national air traffic control stoppage at its core. From 1pm to 5pm local time, staff from multiple key groups will walk out.
This includes air traffic controllers at ENAV's Rome control centre, various airport ground handling crews, and employees from several major airlines. Carriers confirmed to be affected include ITA Airways, Vueling, and EasyJet.
It is estimated that dozens of flights could face delays or outright cancellations during this protest window. Flight compensation expert SkyRefund warns that more than 6,000 passengers could be impacted.
Passenger Rights and Compensation Advice
Ivalyo Danailov, CEO of SkyRefund, has issued crucial guidance for affected travellers. He emphasises that all passengers have distinct rights under EU Regulation 261/2004, but the eligibility for financial compensation depends on who is striking.
All passengers facing significant delays are entitled to care and assistance. This includes meals, refreshments, and if necessary, hotel accommodation for overnight delays, regardless of the strike's cause.
However, the right to financial compensation of up to €600 (approximately £525) is not automatic for strikes. "The key distinction for compensation is who is striking," Danailov stated.
He advises passengers to immediately secure their entitlement to a full refund or alternative re-routing from their airline at the earliest opportunity. "This is non-negotiable under EU law, even if no additional cash compensation is payable," he added.
Wider Travel Disruption Across Europe
The Italian action is part of a broader pattern of festive season travel disruption threatening Europe. In a separate dispute, more than 130 cabin crew for Scandinavian Airlines Services based at Heathrow Airport are also taking strike action.
This follows recent strikes in Portugal which led to dozens of flight and train cancellations. Furthermore, France endured a summer of airport chaos due to similar industrial action.
Passengers using major Italian hubs such as Milan, Rome, Venice, Naples, and Catania are advised to prepare for long security queues and delayed departures. Disruption is likely to ripple into the evening as schedules struggle to recover.
It should be noted that planned strikes for the Italian staff of Air France-KLM have been called off. The Daily Mail has approached ENAV's Rome control centre, Rome airports, and the affected airlines for comment.
