Italy New Travel Chaos as March Strikes Set to Disrupt Flights, Trains, and Public Transport Nationwide

Friday, February 28, 2025

Travelers in Italy this March should brace for disruptions as a series of strikes are set to impact air travel, trains, and local public transport services. The nationwide industrial action will affect key sectors, leading to potential delays and cancellations for commuters and tourists alike.

Nationwide General Strike on March 8

A national general strike is scheduled for Saturday, March 8, coinciding with International Women’s Day. Backed by the SLAI-COBAS, CUB, and USI-CIT trade unions, the strike is expected to impact:

Air travel – Flights could face disruptions throughout the day.
Rail transport – Railway services will be affected from 9:00 PM on March 7 until 9:00 PM on March 8.
Public services – Schools, healthcare facilities, public offices, and factories may also experience shutdowns.

Further details on the extent of disruptions are expected to be announced closer to the date.

Baggage Handlers’ Strike on March 16

On Sunday, March 16, airport baggage handlers across Italy will stage a 24-hour strike, supported by the FLAI trade union. Additionally, Techno Sky, the company responsible for operating and maintaining air traffic control systems, will hold a separate four-hour national strike from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM.

This strike could disrupt check-in services, baggage handling, and flight schedules, leading to delays for passengers at major Italian airports.

Railway Strikes on March 18-19

Rail passengers should prepare for significant delays and cancellations on March 18-19, as railway workers at Trenitalia, Italo, Trenord, and Trenitalia Tper stage a 24-hour strike. The walkout will take place from 9:00 PM on Tuesday, March 18, until 9:00 PM on Wednesday, March 19.

While regional and long-distance train services will be affected, essential rush-hour services in the morning and evening are expected to be guaranteed.

Additionally, on March 19, a separate eight-hour strike has been announced by the UGL Ferrovieri, FAST-Confsal, and ORSA Trasporti trade unions. Workers will walk out from 9:01 AM to 4:59 PM, further impacting train schedules.

What Travelers Should Do

Check flight status with airlines in advance.
Monitor train schedules and plan alternative transport where possible.
Allow extra travel time for potential delays at airports and stations.

These strikes could lead to widespread transportation disruptions across Italy, so passengers are advised to stay updated on official travel advisories.

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Tags: flights, Italy, trains, travel industry, Travel News