- Flight Disruptions
- Italy aviation strikes planned for 26 February and 7th March 2026; expect delays and cancellations
Italy aviation strikes planned for 26 February and 7th March 2026; expect delays and cancellations
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Eligible for compensation
Checked by Alice Mariscotti-Wyatt
Last updated on 19 February 2026
What Happened
Italy’s aviation sector will strike on 26 February 2026. Flights may face delays and cancellations, with extended processing times possible even for operating services. Airports likely to feel the impact include Milan Malpensa, Milan Linate, Rome Fiumicino, Venice Marco Polo, and Verona Valerio Catullo. Walkouts are expected across pilots, cabin crew, and ground staff. Travelers should monitor airline and airport advisories closely, remain flexible with plans, and be prepared for schedule changes on or around the strike date. A further strike will also affect aviation on 7th March.
Passengers affected by this flight disruption may be eligible for compensation of up to €600 under passenger rights regulations.
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Flight Disruption Details
Italy’s aviation sector has rescheduled a planned strike to 26 February 2026, shifting from the original 16 February date to avoid disrupting the busy Olympic period. However, travelers to the Paralympic games may be caught out by a seperate strike by Italy's national air traffic control services provider on 7 March 2026.
The action is expected to affect flight operations nationwide, with potential delays, cancellations, and longer processing times even for services that continue to operate during the strike period.
Airports likely to experience notable disruption include Milan Malpensa, Milan Linate, Rome Fiumicino, Venice Marco Polo, and Verona Valerio Catullo. The walkouts are anticipated across multiple parts of the aviation workforce, including pilots, cabin crew, and ground personnel, increasing the risk of operational instability throughout the day.
With the new timing set for late February, travelers booked to fly on or around 26 February 2026 should prepare for schedule changes and operational variability. Airlines and airports are expected to issue updates as plans for the day are refined. Passengers are advised to monitor their flight status frequently and allow extra time at the airport due to the possibility of extended processing and staffing constraints.
Rail services in Italy are also scheduled to be affected by national strikes from the evening of 27 February through the evening of 28 February, which may limit alternative travel options immediately following the aviation action. Given the overlap and proximity of these events, passengers should consider contingency plans and remain alert to updates.
Key points for air travelers:
- Strike date: 26 February 2026 (aviation sector)
- Likely impacts: Delays, cancellations, extended processing times
- Airports likely affected: Milan Malpensa, Milan Linate, Rome Fiumicino, Venice Marco Polo, Verona Valerio Catullo
Know your rights
These are your air passenger rights
When your flight's disrupted, you may be entitled to various forms of care and compensation under EC 261 and other applicable laws.
Up to €600 compensation
Passengers whose flights were canceled or delayed over 3 hours may be entitled to financial compensation ranging from €250 to €600 per person. Check your flight.
Rerouting or refund
If your flight is canceled, your airline must provide an alternative. You may also get a full refund if you no longer wish to travel.
Care and assistance
Your airline must provide food and refreshments if your journey is delayed more than a few hours.
Accommodation
If you are away from home and your journey is delayed overnight, the airline must offer you accommodation and transportation to it.
Communication
Under EC 261 you are entitled to 2 phone calls or emails if your journey is delayed over 1 hour.
This advice is provided to help you if your flight is delayed or canceled. However, the exact care and compensation you are entitled to will depend on your specific circumstances and flight. Always follow the directions of your airline, particularly with regard to check-in and boarding times.
Quick facts
Summary
Disruption
Delays and Cancellations
Cause
Other strike
Status
Future – confirmed disruption
Compensation
Could be eligible for up to €600 compensation
Airports affected
Milan Malpensa, Milan Linate, Rome Fiumicino, Venice Marco Polo, Verona Valerio Catullo
Cities affected
Milan, Rome, Venice, Verona
Countries affected
Italy
Start date
2026-02-26
Checked by
Alice Mariscotti-Wyatt
Date updated
19 February 2026
What To Do If Your Flight Is Cancelled
If you're traveling to or from the European Union, here's what to do when your flight is unexpectedly scrubbed:
Gather evidence that your flight was delayed, canceled, or overbooked.
Get the airline to provide written confirmation of the disruption and the reason behind it.
Request an alternative flight to your destination — or a refund if you no longer wish to travel.
Make a note of the arrival time at your final destination.
Ask the airline to provide vouchers for meals and refreshments.
Avoid signing documents or accepting offers that may waive your passenger rights.
If an overnight stay is required, ask the airline to provide accommodation.
Save receipts for any additional expenses caused by the disruption.
