Comprehensive strikes begin: Tens of thousands of passengers could be affected

As part of the strike planned for February 16, many personnel working in the Italian airline sector are going on a one-day work stoppage. In particular, ITA Airways employees will stop work for 24 hours starting from midnight. This protest, which includes unions for pilots, cabin crew, and ground handling staff, is expected to affect major airports in the country, primarily Milan Malpensa, Milan Linate, Rome Fiumicino, Venice Marco Polo, and Verona Valerio Catullo.

Despite the existence of partial flight protection, it has been reported that most flights outside the hours of 07:00–10:00 in the morning and 18:00–21:00 in the evening may be subject to cancellations or delays. The fact that more than 70% of the 314 scheduled flights take place outside the specified protection hours increases the risk of cancellations that could affect passengers.

It is estimated that the industrial actions will directly affect between approximately 25 thousand and 27 thousand airline passengers. Cancellations and delays are also expected to occur immediately before and after the strike. On the same day, Vueling Airlines cabin crew are also expected to support the strike, while ground staff working at Airport Handling and ALHA companies will also stop work at Milan Linate and Milan Malpensa airports.

STRIKE WAVE IN RAIL TRANSPORTATION AS WELL

Towards the end of the month, a new wave of strikes is on the horizon in the railway sector. The 24-hour strike by workers within Ferrovie dello Stato Italiane (FS), starting at 21:00 on Friday, February 27, and lasting until 20:59 on Saturday, February 28, will negatively affect both regional trains and high-speed Frecce and Intercity services. It is anticipated that many train services will be disrupted during this period.

Authorities are urging citizens traveling to Italy to stay in contact with airlines and travel agencies to access the most up-to-date information regarding flights and trains. Warnings are being issued, especially for those traveling in February, that there may be last-minute changes to their schedules.

News Source: 12punto