Italy is preparing for widespread travel disruption this May as coordinated strikes across the country’s rail and air transport sectors are expected to impact millions of domestic and international travelers. With peak tourism season fast approaching, unions representing rail workers and airport personnel have announced multiple walkouts over working conditions and wage disputes.
The first major disruption is scheduled for May 5–6, when national railway workers will stage a 24-hour strike. The action will affect major operators including Trenitalia, Trenord, and the FS Group, leading to service halts across long-distance, regional, and commuter routes. The strike is expected to significantly impact rail links to airports such as Milan Malpensa and Rome Fiumicino, making alternative travel arrangements essential.
Air travelers will face delays on May 9, when a nationwide aviation strike is set to take place between 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. Staff from key ground service providers like Swissport Italia and Aviation Services are expected to participate, affecting baggage handling, check-in services, and flight operations across airports in Rome, Milan, and Venice. Airlines are advising passengers to monitor their flight statuses and allow extra time for processing at terminals.
Further disruption is expected in Lombardy on May 27–28, when Trenord workers will conduct a 23-hour regional strike. While some peak-time services will be maintained, many local and airport-bound routes are likely to experience delays or cancellations.
As a precaution, travelers are being encouraged to stay updated through official channels and to consider flexible booking options. EU passenger rights laws entitle travelers to compensation or alternative arrangements in cases of cancellation or severe delay due to strikes.
The industrial action highlights growing tensions within Italy’s transportation sector as labor groups push for long-overdue reforms. For tourists and business travelers alike, careful planning and flexibility will be key to navigating the disruption. With summer demand rising, the strikes present yet another test for Europe’s already strained travel infrastructure.
