Russian news agency AK&M reported on 27 July that ongoing strikes by air-traffic controllers in France and ground-handling staff across Europe led to more than 900 flight cancellations on Monday alone. Although Italy avoided a domestic walkout this week, ENAV, SEA Handling and several handling companies have activated contingency plans at Rome-Fiumicino, Milan-Malpensa and Venice-Marco Polo to absorb diverted traffic and potential knock-on delays. The Civil Aviation Authority (ENAC) has reminded carriers of the list of ‘guaranteed flights’ that must operate during industrial actions abroad, including at least one connection per route for islands and essential long-haul services. Travellers connecting through Paris, Brussels or Palma de Mallorca—where Swissport staff began a four-day strike on 27 July—face the highest risk of disruption. Corporate travel managers should encourage employees to travel with carry-on luggage only, choose morning flights that are more likely to depart, and monitor the StrikeTracker and ENAC websites for exemptions. Where feasible, rerouting via Zurich or Vienna can reduce exposure to French airspace closures. The next nationwide ENAV strike in Italy is scheduled for 30 September 2026 (13:00–17:00), but unions have warned that solidarity actions could be called at short notice if negotiations on summer overtime pay stall. Companies with critical projects should build buffer days into travel itineraries through the peak-holiday period.
Source: AK&M Newswire
