Train traveling along Lake Como, Italy. Photo: Shutterstock Italy is entering a week of widespread disruption to its transport system, following a series of strikes by airline, rail, ferry and public transport workers. The first strike, which began today (July 21, 2026), is expected to affect thousands of flights, with further protests expected later in the week that will also affect rail, ferry and urban transport.
The national aviation strike began at midnight and will last 24 hours. Among others, easyJet flight crews are participating, but the main impact is due to the strike by ground, cargo and transportation workers, which affects all airlines operating in the country.
The disruptions are being felt at major airports including Milan Malpensa, Naples, Lamezia Terme, Olbia and Alghero in Sardinia. Passengers are facing delays in baggage handling, long waits at check-in and security counters, and delays in take-offs and landings.
In Rome, Fiumicino and Ciampino airports are operating almost as usual, with the exception of isolated cancellations of easyJet flights.
According to the regulations of the Italian Civil Aviation Authority (ENAC), airlines are obliged to operate flights during protected hours, between 07:00 and 10:00 and between 18:00 and 21:00, and therefore some flights continue to operate as usual.
Starting Wednesday at noon, a 24-hour strike will begin in the maritime transportation industry, which will include the shipping company GNV and other companies.
The strike is expected to affect the operations of the port of Civitavecchia, which serves as Rome's main maritime gateway, and the ferry lines to Sardinia and Sicily.
On Thursday at 9:00 PM, a nationwide train strike will begin that will last 24 hours and will include the national train company Trenitalia as well as the Italo company.
The strike is expected to result in the cancellation of high-speed trains, regional trains and night trains, and will particularly affect the central stations in Rome.
At the same time, disruptions are also expected in urban public transportation on Friday, with bus, metro, and tram services operated by ATAC in Rome potentially being affected.
Travelers staying in Italy are advised to regularly monitor updates from airlines, train companies, and ferry companies, as schedules may change at short notice.
In the event of a flight, train or cruise cancellation due to strikes, transportation companies are required to offer passengers a choice between a refund or an alternative travel date, and in some cases also provide assistance such as meals, drinks or accommodation. Since this is a labor strike and not a force majeure event, flight passengers may also be entitled to compensation, depending on the circumstances and applicable law.