Air travel strike in Italy postponed until after the Winter Olympics

Flying to or via Italy soon? Here’s what you need to know. A nationwide strike in Italy’s aviation sector is now scheduled for 26 February 2026. The action was postponed due to the Winter Olympics, but it could still disrupt flights to and from Italy.

Why is there a strike in Italy’s aviation sector?

The planned strike involves cabin crew, ground handling staff and airport employees across Italy. Several major carriers could be affected, including ITA Airways, Vueling and easyJet.

For passengers flying with ITA Airways, Italy’s national airline, this may mean schedule changes on domestic and international routes.

Travellers booked with Vueling or easyJet, both operating extensive networks to and from Milan, could also face delays or cancellations, particularly if airport ground services are disrupted.

Staff at key airports such as Milan Linate Airport, Milan Malpensa Airport and Brescia Montichiari Airport may also take part in the action. That increases the likelihood of operational disruption, especially in and around Milan, one of Italy’s busiest international gateways.

The unions say the strike stems from long-running labour negotiations and demands for improved working conditions in the aviation and ground handling sectors. Tensions between the unions and the government remain high.

Postponed due to the Winter Olympics

The strike was originally scheduled for an earlier date, but Transport Minister Matteo Salvini intervened to prevent disruption during the Winter Olympics.

With thousands of athletes, officials and spectators travelling through Milan between 6 and 22 February 2026, the government argued that air traffic could not be brought to a halt during the Games. The strike has therefore been rescheduled to 26 February, just days after the Olympics conclude.

A separate strike by air traffic controllers is also planned for 7 March, although it remains unclear whether that action will go ahead.

What does this mean for passengers?

Travelling around 26 February? Be prepared for possible disruption.
If your airline informs you that your flight has been cancelled, or if you arrive at your final destination more than three hours late, you may be entitled to compensation of up to €600 per passenger, depending on the distance of your flight and the circumstances.

We’ll continue to monitor developments and update you as soon as more information becomes available.

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