by InTrieste
Air travelers in Italy should brace for significant disruptions on Sunday, December 15, as strikes by air traffic controllers and baggage handlers are set to impact airports across the country.
The scheduled industrial action includes a 24-hour strike by TechnoSky, a subsidiary of ENAV that manages air navigation systems. ENAV air traffic controllers will also stage a walkout from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM local time at key airports, including Milan Malpensa, Milan Linate, Bari, Brindisi, and Catania. This is expected to cause delays and possible cancelations of flights.
Adding to the turmoil, baggage handlers and airport workers represented by Assohandlers will strike nationwide during the same hours, potentially affecting operations such as check-in and baggage services. However, this action is not anticipated to disrupt flights directly.
Flight Cancellations and Passenger Advisory
ITA Airways announced the cancelation of 37 national and international flights on Sunday due to the strike, with affected routes including connections to Rome, Milan, London, and Brussels. Passengers traveling with ITA Airways and other carriers are advised to check the status of their flights.
Aeroporti di Roma, the management company overseeing Rome’s airports, warned travelers of potential delays or cancelations. The company urged passengers to stay informed by contacting their airlines.
Guaranteed Flights and Strike Regulations
The Italian Civil Aviation Authority (ENAC) provides detailed information about strikes and the specific time slots during which flights are guaranteed under Italian law. Passengers are encouraged to consult ENAC’s website for updates.
Broader Context of Labor Action
This wave of airport sector strikes comes just two days after a 24-hour general strike disrupted public transportation, schools, and healthcare services across Italy, causing traffic chaos. For information on public transport strikes, visit the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport’s website.
Travelers navigating the Italian airspace on Sunday should prepare for potential disruptions and stay updated through official channels to minimize inconvenience.
