More strikes are to be expected this Friday, 26 September. Walkouts have been called by two of Italy’s biggest unions, CUB Transporti and USB unions. The 24 hour strike involved airline crews and staff, with Milan’s Linate and Malpensa airports being among the worst affected.
Baggage handlers will strike between 10 am and 2 pm at several airports. Meanwhile, drivers at Milan’s airport are striking for the full day. Affecting ground operations as well. Security staff at Sardinia Cagliari Elmas airports are also joining. Finally, pilots from Volotea and Wiz Air Malta are also going on strike due to low pay and poor working conditions.
Why are airport workers striking?
Besides stagnant wages, unions are demanding backpay for Sunday work, to resolve wage discrepancies for vacation days and laundry expenses.
““It’s time for the companies that have so far refused to compensate workers at Linate, Malpensa and Bergamo airports to pay what they owe, and the other companies in the entire national aviation, airport and related industries to recognize workers’ rights” (Sauers, 2025).
They are also mobilising for the Palestine people, victims of the genocide and support to the Global Sudum Flotilla.
What does the strike mean for travellers?
Flights between 7–10 am and 6–9 pm are guaranteed by ENAC. Outside protected windows, passengers should expect cancellations and significant delays.Travellers are urged to confirm schedules with airlines before leaving for airports.
More strikes planned in Italy
Additional transport strikes are planned in Italy during October. A nationwide rail strike will occur from 2 October to 3 October. Then, airport walkouts are scheduled on 13 October in Rome, Pisa, and Florence. Furthermore, Swissport Italia ground handlers at Milan Linate will strike again on 29 October. Travellers should monitor official calendars from Italy’s transport ministry for updated strike information.
Reference
Saueurs, C. (2025, September 25). Flights in Italy face disruption as nationwide air transport strikes hit on Friday. Euronews. https://www.euronews.com/travel/2025/09/25/flights-in-italy-face-disruption-as-nationwide-air-transport-strikes-hit-on-friday