Anticipated Transport Strikes in Italy Slated for May 2025

Heading to Italy in May? Brace yourself for some travel disruptions as labor unions have announced numerous national walkouts, affecting air and rail transit across the country.

Transport strikes are a recurring theme in Italy, with at least two or three nationwide actions scheduled each month. Fortunately, most protests are announced well ahead of time, giving commuters and travelers a chance to make alternate arrangements or reschedule their journeys. The Italian Transport Ministry even maintains an online calendar (in Italian) listing upcoming strikes.

Here's a rundown of the major walkouts to keep an eye on if you're traveling around Italy in May:

May 6th - National Rail StrikeOn Tuesday, May 6th, train passengers in Italy are expected to face delays and cancellations as staff at operators such as Trenitalia and Trenord plan to walk out from 9 AM to 5 PM. This strike, backed by six major trade unions, is expected to impact long-distance, regional, and commuter routes. See More on What to Expect from Italy's National Rail Strike on May 6th

May 9th - Nationwide Air Transport StrikeAir travelers may experience delays or cancellations on May 9th, as a four-hour nationwide strike backed by the CUB union is set to hit the air transport sector. Airline staff and airport ground services, including handling crews, are expected to walk out from 1 PM to 5 PM. More on How Air Travelers May Be Affected on May 9th

May 27th-28th - Regional Train StrikeStaff of Trenord, which operates regional trains in Lombardy, including connections to and from Milan's Malpensa Airport, are set to strike for 23 hours. The walkout, backed by the Orsa Ferrovie rail workers' union, is scheduled to start at 3 AM on Tuesday, May 27th and end at 2 AM on Wednesday, May 28th. More on the Regional Train Strike

Keep in mind that transport strikes in Italy are common but not always disruptive to travel plans. The severity of disruption depends on the number of workers participating in the strike. Nationwide protests, particularly those backed by significant trade unions, tend to have a greater impact as they represent a larger number of workers. Even in highly disruptive situations, transport operators are legally required to maintain minimum essential services during peak travel times.

What to Do If Your Flight or Train Is Cancelled

If your flight or train is canceled due to strike action, you are entitled to a refund or rebooking, and the airline or transport operator must always offer you a choice. If you're booked onto a later flight and have to wait for more than two hours, you're entitled to assistance such as food and drink. Learn More About Your Rights

For live updates on strikes, bookmark our website's strike news section.

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Disclaimer

All information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only. While we strive to ensure the accuracy of the information, we encourage you to verify details with the relevant authorities and check real-time updates before traveling. We do not assume any liability for any misinterpretations, errors, or omissions in the information provided.

In May, Italy's transport sector may experience disruptions due to scheduled national walkouts, affecting air and rail transit.
The Italian Transport Ministry maintains an online calendar of upcoming strikes, aiding travelers in making alternate arrangements.
On May 6th, a national rail strike is planned, potentially resulting in delays and cancellations from 9 AM to 5 PM, impacting Trenitalia, Trenord, and other operators.
On May 9th, a four-hour nationwide air transport strike is scheduled, with potential delays or cancellations from 1 PM to 5 PM.
From May 27th to 28th, Trenord staff may strike, impacting regional trains, including connections to and from Milan's Malpensa Airport.
In Italy, transport strikes are common but not always disruptive; the severity of disruption depends on the number of workers participating.
Nationswide protests, particularly those backed by significant trade unions, tend to have a greater impact as they represent a larger number of workers.
If your flight or train is canceled due to strike action, you are entitled to a refund or rebooking, and the airline or transport operator must offer you a choice.
During highly disruptive situations, transport operators are legally required to maintain minimum essential services during peak travel times.

Anticipated Transport Strikes in Italy Slated for May 2025