Italy,
Strike,

Today, travelers across Italy are facing significant disruptions due to coordinated strikes by EasyJet staff, baggage handlers at Milan’s Linate and Malpensa airports, and taxi drivers in several major cities; these industrial actions have been called to demand better working conditions and operational improvements, resulting in delayed flights, slower airport services, and severely limited taxi availability that could impact anyone traveling to, from, or within Italy.

Widespread Travel Disruptions Expected Across Italy on Wednesday, May 28th Due to Multiple Strikes

Travelers heading to, from, or within Italy should brace for potential delays and interruptions on Wednesday, May 28th, as a series of strikes threaten to disrupt both air and ground transportation. Various unions have called for industrial action, impacting budget airline EasyJet’s Italian operations, baggage handling teams at Milan’s main airports, and taxi services in several major cities. If you have travel plans on this date, it’s important to be aware of the unfolding situation and prepare accordingly.

EasyJet Staff Walkout Could Affect Flights in Italy

A key disruption comes from the British low-cost airline EasyJet, whose Italy-based pilots and cabin crew have announced a strike scheduled between 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM on Wednesday. The industrial action, organized by the trade union Unione Sindacale di Base (USB), is aimed at securing better working conditions, increased workplace safety, and improved shift scheduling for airline staff.

Although EasyJet has yet to officially cancel any flights as of Tuesday morning, the walkout is expected to cause substantial delays and possible cancellations for flights operating into, out of, or across Italy during the strike window. Given the lack of public information about the total number of employees involved, a high participation rate is anticipated, which could severely disrupt services.

Travelers booked with EasyJet on May 28th should closely monitor the status of their flights via the airline’s official website or customer service channels before leaving for the airport. Early communication is advised to avoid inconvenience.

Baggage Handler Strike at Milan Linate and Malpensa Airports

Simultaneously, ground operations at Milan’s two principal airports — Linate and Malpensa — will face disruption as baggage handlers plan a four-hour strike from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM. This industrial action may impact check-in procedures and baggage drop-off or collection services rather than the actual flight schedules.

According to recent reports from Italian news outlets, arrivals and departures are expected to proceed as scheduled; however, delays on the ground could cause passengers to experience longer wait times during airport procedures. Those departing from Milan on May 28th should therefore allow extra time for their airport transit to accommodate these disruptions.

Flights Protected by Italian Strike Laws

Italy’s Civil Aviation Authority (Enac) mandates specific protections for certain flights during strike actions to minimize disruption to passengers. Flights scheduled to take off between 7:00 AM and 10:00 AM, as well as those departing between 6:00 PM and 9:00 PM, are exempt from strike measures and must operate as planned.

Consequently, travelers flying during these windows on May 28th can expect their flights to proceed normally, although delays caused by related airport operations cannot be entirely ruled out.

Your Rights if Flights Are Cancelled or Delayed

For passengers flying within the European Union, or on flights departing an EU member state to a non-EU destination, European Air Passenger Rights legislation offers protections. If your flight is cancelled or significantly delayed, you may be entitled to a refund or an alternative booking with the airline.

This legislation also covers passengers traveling to the EU from non-EU countries when the airline operating the flight holds an EU license. Affected passengers should contact their airline promptly to understand their rights and options in case of disruption.

Taxi Driver Strikes Disrupting Ground Transport in Several Italian Cities

The impact of strikes extends beyond airports to city taxi services, where local drivers in Rome, Naples, Turin, Bari, and Lamezia Terme (Calabria) have planned walkouts on May 28th. These strikes will severely reduce the availability of taxi transportation in these urban areas.

In Rome, Naples, Turin, and Lamezia Terme, drivers have declared a full 24-hour strike, effectively halting most taxi operations for the entire day. Meanwhile, in Bari, taxi drivers are expected to stop working from 9:00 AM until 9:00 PM.

While precise participation numbers remain undisclosed, Italian media outlets warn that taxi services will be significantly limited, likely causing difficulties for passengers relying on this mode of transport. Travelers should anticipate challenges and arrange alternative transportation options in advance, such as ride-sharing services, public transit, or private car hires.

Planning Ahead: Tips for Travelers on May 28th

Given the multiple overlapping strikes affecting various aspects of travel infrastructure, passengers are strongly advised to:

  • Check Flight Status Early: Regularly verify your flight details with your airline, particularly if flying with EasyJet or departing from Milan airports.
  • Arrive Early at Airports: Factor in extra time for check-in and baggage processing due to ground staff walkouts.
  • Explore Alternative Transport: If relying on taxis in affected cities, consider booking ride-hailing services ahead or using public transportation where possible.
  • Know Your Rights: Familiarize yourself with EU air passenger regulations to understand your entitlements in case of cancellations or delays.
  • Stay Updated: Monitor news sources and official transport announcements for any last-minute changes or additional strike actions.

Summary of Key Strike Timings on May 28th

Strike Type Location(s) Time Impact
EasyJet Staff Strike Italy-based crew 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM Potential delays/cancellations on EasyJet flights
Baggage Handlers Strike Milan Linate & Milan Malpensa 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM Delays in baggage handling & check-in services
Taxi Drivers Strike Rome, Naples, Turin, Lamezia Terme 24 hours Severe reduction in taxi availability
Taxi Drivers Strike Bari 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM Significant limitation of taxi services

Today, Italy faces major travel disruptions as EasyJet staff, Milan airport baggage handlers, and taxi drivers strike to demand better working conditions, causing delays and limited transport options nationwide.

Travelers are encouraged to remain flexible and patient throughout this period, as labor disputes continue to impact Italy’s transport network. Staying well-informed and prepared will help minimize inconvenience amid the disruptions expected on Wednesday, May 28th.

The post Italy Braces For Widespread Travel Disruptions As EasyJet Staff, Milan Baggage Handlers, And Taxi Drivers Strike Today appeared first on Travel And Tour World.