Trenitalia. Photo: massimo1g / Shutterstock.com A major nationwide rail strike in Italy is expected to disrupt train travel across the country this week, including connections to Rome Fiumicino "Leonardo da Vinci" International Airport, one of Europe’s busiest airports.
According to Aeroporti di Roma and Italian rail operators, the strike will begin at 9:00 PM local time on Thursday, May 28, and continue until 9:00 PM on Friday, May 29.
The industrial action involves employees from the FS Group, Trenitalia, Trenitalia Tper and Trenord, with passengers warned that trains across the national network may face delays, cancellations or schedule changes.
Airport rail connections to and from Rome Fiumicino Airport are among the services expected to be affected, potentially creating difficulties for travelers arriving in or departing from the Italian capital during the busy travel period.
Despite the disruption, authorities said some essential rail services will still operate. Regional transport services are guaranteed during weekday peak periods from 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM and again from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
Long-distance trains are also expected to continue operating during the strike, although delays and last-minute schedule changes remain possible.
Additional disruption is expected in northern Italy. SAD rail services on routes including Bolzano to Merano, Merano to Malles and Brennero to Bolzano may be altered due to a separate strike involving SAD staff. Meanwhile, a separate 24 hour strike by Trentino Trasporti employees could impact rail services on the Trento to Bassano del Grappa line.
Officials warned that disruption could begin before the official strike period and continue after it ends.
Passengers who no longer wish to travel can request refunds or reschedule journeys depending on ticket type and availability. Travelers are being advised to check service updates before heading to stations or airports as transport operators prepare for one of the largest rail disruptions in Italy this year.