Nationwide ground staff strikes in Italy expected to disrupt air traffic

On Wednesday 29 October, ground staff across several major Italian airports will go on strike. The industrial action affects airports in Milan (Linate and Malpensa), Pisa, and Florence, and is expected to cause flight delays and cancellations throughout the day.

What is happening?

Ground and cleaning staff employed by Swissport and Airport Handling will strike for 24 hours at Milan’s airports, while staff at Pisa and Florence will also walk out for the entire day.

Employees from several airlines, including Vueling and Air France-KLM, will join the strike during specific time slots between 12:00 and 17:00.

The Italian Ministry of Transport has warned travellers to prepare for potential disruption, although certain flight periods are protected.

Protected travel times in Italy

Italian law restricts industrial action during rush hours to limit the impact on passengers. Between 07:00 and 10:00 and 18:00 and 21:00, flights must be operated as scheduled.

These time windows, known as “protected hours”, ensure that essential travel can continue during peak times.

Your rights as a passenger

If your flight to or from Italy is delayed or cancelled due to the strike, your rights depend on who is striking:

When airline staff (such as pilots, cabin crew or ground staff directly employed by the airline) go on strike, you may be entitled to compensation under EU Regulation 261/2004.

When third-party airport staff (for example, airport handlers or security personnel) are on strike, this is considered an extraordinary circumstance, meaning you are not entitled to compensation.

However, even during extraordinary circumstances, the airline must still provide care and assistance, including meals, refreshments, and hotel accommodation if necessary.

Check your flight with EUclaim

If you’ve been affected by the strikes in Italy, EUclaim can help determine whether you are entitled to compensation or care from the airline.
Check your flight number on our website to find out if you qualify under European Regulation 261/2004.