In February, Italy faces serious transport disruptions due to a wave of strikes in key sectors. Restrictions may affect air travel, railways, ports and urban transport, making it difficult to travel around the country. Find out more about which dates are most risky for travel and how to prepare for possible disruptions

In February, Italy's transport system came under serious pressure due to a large-scale wave of strikes in various sectors. The protests affect aviation, railways, maritime transport and local transport, and certain dates may significantly complicate travel both within the country and abroad. Which areas will be affected, when to expect the most disruptions, and why February will be particularly difficult for passengers — we will tell you more in this article.

Planning a trip?

If you are planning a trip, it is worth preparing in advance for possible delays and flight cancellations. Travel insurance from the Visit World portal will help minimise financial risks in case of force majeure and keep you calm even during periods of transport instability.

February strikes in Italy: what is happening with transport?

A large number of protests in the transport sector are planned in Italy throughout the month. These are full-scale nationwide strikes lasting 24 hours. Air transport, long-distance and regional rail services, urban transport and port operations are at risk.

Regional protests: the beginning of disruptions

The wave of strikes began with local protests in the railway sector. The first difficulties for passengers were recorded in the regions of Lazio and Lombardy, where transport restrictions became noticeable at the beginning of the month. These regions traditionally have heavy passenger traffic, so even partial disruptions are felt by thousands of people.

16 February: aviation under attack

One of the key dates was Monday, 16 February. On this day, a 24-hour strike is planned in the air transport sector, which will affect ITA Airways staff and airport ground services. Flights via Linate and Malpensa require special attention, as cancellations or significant delays are possible. Problems are also expected for carriers operating flights to and from Italy.

27–28 February: nationwide railway strike

At the end of the month, on Friday and Saturday, 27–28 February, a nationwide strike in the railway sector is planned. Ferrovie dello Stato staff will be downing tools, which could lead to a complete or partial stoppage of intercity and regional trains across the country. For passengers, this means checking timetables in advance and looking for alternative travel options.

Protests in ports and additional risks

In addition to aviation and railways, strikes are also planned in the maritime sector in February. A separate protest will last all day and affect port workers, which may affect ferry and freight transport operations. In total, more than two dozen protests have been announced throughout the month, including several on a national scale.

The situation is complicated by a busy calendar of events, including the start of the Milan-Cortina Olympics, which traditionally increases the load on the transport infrastructure. Against the backdrop of strikes, this increases the risk of delays and route changes even for passengers who do not usually use the types of transport affected by the strikes.

How can travellers prepare?

Passengers are advised to allow extra time for travel, closely monitor updates from carriers, and have a backup plan in case of flight or train cancellations. This is especially important for tourists and transit travellers who have connections or fixed travel dates.

During periods of transport disruption, it is important to take care of your financial protection. Travel insurance from the Visit World portal will help to compensate for expenses in the event of flight delays, trip cancellations or other unforeseen situations on the road.

Take out travel insurance in advance to ensure your trip is as peaceful and safe as possible!

Reminder! Southern Italy attracts visitors with its mild climate, gastronomy and sea, but to truly enjoy its charms, it is important to choose the right time to travel. When is the best time to go to southern Italy? We tell you here.

Photo: generated using Gemini

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Checklist for obtaining a visa and necessary documents in Italy;

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