In Italy, a planned work stoppage by air transport unions has resulted in the cancellation of hundreds of flights, disrupting travelers during the peak tourist season. This strike follows a recent train strike that paralyzed rail service in the country. Transport strikes are common during the summertime in Italy, as unions advocate for improved work contracts and conditions. This year, the strikes have had a significant impact due to the surge in tourism following two years of pandemic-related losses.
Italy’s national carrier ITA canceled 133 flights, mostly domestic but including some European destinations such as Madrid, Amsterdam, and Barcelona. Low-cost airlines Ryanair and Vueling also canceled dozens of flights during the strike, which lasted from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The strike involved various workers, including pilots, flight attendants, baggage handlers, and airport personnel.
Both Naples’ airport and Rome’s Leonardo da Vinci airport experienced numerous flight cancellations as a result of the strike. Travelers faced inconvenience and frustration due to the disrupted flights.
The strike was called by labor unions Filt Cgil, Uiltrasporti, and Ugl Trasporto, citing “absolutely unsatisfactory” contract disagreements with Malta Air, the operator of Ryanair flights. Ryanair issued an apology on its website for the cancellations and disruptions, attributing them to the strike, which was “beyond our control.”
Filt Cgil spokeswoman Sara di Marco criticized the government for delaying discussions with unions to renew work contracts. The unions expressed their goal was not to inconvenience customers but to seek a resolution. They expressed dissatisfaction with the last-minute meeting scheduled by the ministry, describing it as an attempt to defer or preempt the strike.
Just days before the airport strike, rail workers went on strike, leaving commuters and tourists stranded at train stations across Italy. High-speed train services were significantly affected by the strike.
Affected travelers, like Lizzy Lake, expressed frustration with the situation but acknowledged strikes as a common occurrence in both Italy and their home country of England. Lake, stranded in Rome, mentioned her desire to return home but understood the circumstances.
Overall, the strikes have caused significant disruptions for travelers in Italy, impacting both domestic and international flights during the busy summer season.
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