Italy is experiencing significant transport disruptions today, Friday 9 January 2026, due to a series of coordinated strikes across the aviation and rail sectors, with impacts expected on local public transport as well. This is part of a broader wave of industrial actions affecting multiple transport categories in the first week of January.
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Why Strikes Are Happening
Italian unions have called strikes this week to protest a range of issues including working conditions, labour protections, job security, and broader socio-economic policies. These actions involve major transport sectors and are aimed at pressuring employers and policymakers to negotiate improvements.
Airport and Flight Disruptions
Today’s strikes directly affect the air travel sector:
- EasyJet cabin crew are on strike for the entire day (00:00–23:59).
- Vueling flight attendants are striking from 10:00 to 18:00.
- Ground-handling staff (Assohandlers) will stop working from 13:00 to 17:00.
These stoppages are expected to cause flight delays, cancellations, long check-in queues, baggage handling disruptions, and general airport congestion at major hubs including Rome Fiumicino, Milan Malpensa, Milan Linate, Bologna, and Turin.
Trains Under Strain
The rail network is also on strike:
- A nationwide rail strike runs from 21:00 today until 21:00 tomorrow, involving staff across major train operators.
- Trenitalia and other carriers warn that disruptions, cancellations and delays could arise before and after the official strike period.
- Service guarantee windows (such as early morning and early evening) remain in place for some regional trains, but travel remains uncertain.
Passengers are strongly advised to check train status before heading to stations.
Local Public Transport
Although today’s main focus is on air and rail, local buses, trams, and urban services continue to be affected by regional and local strikes that began on 8 January and run through the week. This may result in reduced service frequencies or cancelled routes in affected cities.
Nationwide Impact
- Commuters and travellers across Italy — from northern cities to the south — are feeling the effects of these labour actions.
- Airports and major train stations are especially pressured, with travellers urged to prepare for changes in schedules and possible disruptions.
- With further days of strikes planned in January for other transport modes, residents and visitors should stay informed and flexible in their travel plans.
Advice for Residents, Expats and Travellers
Given the scale and timing of today’s strikes, anyone travelling or commuting in Italy is advised to remain cautious and well informed. Checking the status of flights, trains and local transport services before leaving home is strongly recommended, as schedules may change with little notice. Even when services are officially running, delays and disruptions are possible, especially at major transport hubs and during peak hours. Allowing extra travel time and considering alternative routes or means of transport can help reduce inconvenience. Staying updated through official transport operators and reliable news sources remains the best way to navigate a day marked by industrial action.
All details and real-time updates are available on the Ministry of Transport website (MIT) or in Trenitalia website.
