Italian airport employee unions have called for a 24-hour strike next Monday, which could lead to the cancellation of hundreds of flights. The unions, representing baggage handlers at airports in Milan, are calling for a national strike to demand higher wages and improved working conditions, starting from midnight on January 8th until midnight on January 9th. The strike will include workers at Malpensa and Linate airports in Milan.
Additional delays are expected at Rome’s Fiumicino Airport as well as at airports in Venice and Treviso, where security staff also plan to stop work for 24 hours next Monday. Meanwhile, ground staff working at Florence Airport will strike on January 8th. According to Italian law, a minimum level of essential services must be maintained, so some flights will continue to operate between 7:00 and 10:00 and from 18:00 to 21:00 as planned.
In the broader context of European airports, strikes have been a recurring theme, especially in the wake of the pandemic and the subsequent recovery phase of the aviation industry. These strikes have stemmed from various issues, including staff shortages, stressful working conditions, and pay disputes exacerbated by the cost-of-living crisis. Countries like France, Spain, Belgium, and Greece have seen significant industrial actions leading to thousands of flight delays and cancellations. In France, for instance, air traffic control strikes have resulted in the cancellation of half of all flights from airports like Paris-Orly and Brest. Spain has also experienced a series of strikes affecting its airports, particularly in Alicante, with ground handlers announcing strikes over several months.
Previously, on November 24, 2023, Italy experienced a similar nationwide strike by airport workers. The unions involved in this strike included FLAI, USB, and CUB, with demands focused on improved salaries and workers’ rights. This strike impacted handling services, ground staff, and other airport services, causing widespread disruptions throughout the day.
These strikes indicate a pattern of labor unrest within the European aviation sector, reflecting broader trends of workforce dissatisfaction and the challenging economic conditions affecting various industries across the continent. Travelers are advised to stay informed about potential strikes and disruptions, especially when planning trips involving air travel in Europe.
