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Italy faces major transport strikes at end of February

Italy faces major transport strikes at end of February
Italy’s transport network is set to be disrupted at the end of February as coordinated strikes in the aviation, rail and local public transport sectors threaten widespread travel disruption. These major transport strikes coincide with a busy travel period as the country approaches the close of winter and the tail end of the Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics.

Confirmed strike dates and sectors

Industrial actions are scheduled for three consecutive days later this month:

  • Thursday 26 February: Nationwide strike affecting the aviation sector. Staff at major airlines including ITA Airways and crews from carriers such as easyJet and Vueling are expected to walk out, with airport ground services also involved.
  • Friday 27 and Saturday 28 February: A 24-hour national rail strike begins at 21:00 on 27 February and runs until 20:59 on 28 February. Train drivers and onboard personnel from Ferrovie dello Stato Italiane and other operators will participate, with possible knock-on impacts on regional and intercity services.

Local public transport workers in cities such as Turin and Bari will also be involved in regional stoppages on 27 February.

The strike dates were confirmed after earlier plans were adjusted to avoid clashing with peak travel times during the Winter Olympics. Local authorities, including the transport minister, moved some actions to later in the month to reduce pressure on Olympic travel infrastructure.

What travellers should expect

Passengers preparing to travel on these dates are advised to expect flight cancellations, delays, and reduced train services. Strikes typically affect operations both during the official walkout hours and in the periods immediately before and after the action as services adjust timetables.

During rail strikes, a limited number of “fasce di garanzia” (guaranteed services) will keep some key trains running, particularly during peak commuting hours. Lists of guaranteed services are published by rail operators online.

For air travel, passengers should check directly with airlines for cancellation information and policies regarding rebooking or refunds. Previous airline walkouts in Italy have seen significant disruptions to schedules.

For frequent travel updates and planned alternative services, passengers should consult official transport operator websites in the days leading up to the strikes.

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