UK travellers to Italy over the Valentine’s weekend have been warned of planned strike action by airline workers on 16 February.
The coordinated industrial action involves airlines, ground handlers and airport services and has been planned during one of the busiest travel periods, with increased passenger numbers due to Valentine’s Day, the start of the half-term holiday, and the Winter Olympics, which is being hosted in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo.
Staff from ITA Airways and Vueling are both set to strike, while ground operation delays at Malpensa and Linate airports in Milan are expected.
Airports in Rome, Venice, Naples, Bologna and Verona may also be impacted.
UK travellers have been advised to monitor airline notifications 48-72 hours before departure, allow extra time at major airports and prioritise flexible fares and travel insurance that covers industrial action.
A spokesperson for the operator Global Work and Travel said: “Strikes aren’t unusual in Italy but their impact is much greater during high-demand periods like Valentine’s weekend and major international events.
“For UK travellers, this isn’t about avoiding Italy, it’s about planning smarter.
“When romance, major events and winter travel overlap, flexibility becomes part of the trip.”
