Rome, Italy – June 2025:
Travellers heading to or within Italy on Friday, June 20, 2025, are being warned to expect widespread disruptionsacross airports, train stations, and urban transport networks as the country prepares for a nationwide 24-hour general strike. The industrial action, announced by several grassroots trade unions, will impact domestic and international flights, long-distance and regional train services, as well as local buses, metros, trams, and ferries.
The strike will officially begin at 21:00 on Thursday, June 19, and is expected to last until 21:00 on Friday, June 20. Italy’s major travel hubs, including Rome, Milan, Florence, and Naples, are bracing for significant travel delays and cancellations.
Train Services Heavily Affected
Italy’s national railway operator Trenitalia has confirmed that both high-speed Frecce trains and Intercity routes, as well as regional trains, will be affected by the strike. While essential services are legally required to operate during weekday strikes—specifically from 06:00 to 09:00 and again from 18:00 to 21:00—passengers are advised to check individual train statuses in advance on Trenitalia’s official website or app.
Travellers using regional networks should anticipate reduced frequency, modified routes, and last-minute cancellations. Popular routes connecting Rome to Florence, Milan, Venice, and Naples may experience longer journey times and overcrowding on limited operating trains.
Flights Cancelled as Airport Ground Staff Join the Strike
The aviation sector is expected to bear the brunt of the strike, with airport workers, baggage handlers, ground crew, and support staff all walking off the job for 24 hours. Italy’s flag carrier, ITA Airways, has announced the cancellation of 34 flights, affecting both domestic and international routes.
Cancellations include key connections between London, Rome, and Milan, with additional delays expected throughout Italy’s airports including Rome Fiumicino, Milan Malpensa, Venice Marco Polo, and Naples Capodichino.
Travellers flying on or around June 20 are strongly advised to:
- Check flight status directly with their airline
- Allow extra time at airports
- Be prepared for last-minute changes or cancellations
- Rebook flights in advance if flexible
Several low-cost carriers operating in Italy, including easyJet, Ryanair, and Wizz Air, have also issued statements urging passengers to verify schedules and anticipate longer wait times.
Public Transport in Rome and Milan to Operate Partial Service
Commuters and tourists in major cities like Rome and Milan will also face interruptions to local bus, tram, and metro services. The capital’s transport agency, ATAC, has announced that services will be guaranteed only during limited windows:
- Start of service to 08:30
- 17:00 to 20:00
In Milan, local operator ATM will offer guaranteed services:
- Until 08:45
- 15:00 to 18:00
Outside of these hours, public transport may operate at reduced capacity or be suspended altogether. Services in cities such as Turin, Bologna, Palermo, and Florence will follow similar models, but times may vary. Tourists relying on public transport for sightseeing or airport transfers are encouraged to explore alternative transportation options, including taxis or private car services, where available.
Ferries and Ports Also Impacted
Italy’s coastal transport services, including ferries and port operations, will be impacted as maritime workers join the strike. Ferry routes between the mainland and islands such as Sicily, Sardinia, and Capri will operate on a reduced or emergency schedule. Operators have indicated that essential maritime services will run, but most leisure and non-essential routes may face delays or cancellations.
Why Is the Strike Taking Place?
The strike has been organized by multiple grassroots and independent trade unions, including USB, CUB, SGB, FISI, and FLAI, to protest against a number of national policy issues. The unions are calling for:
- Increased investment in public health, education, and transport
- Better workplace safety measures
- Reduced military spending
This general strike movement reflects a broader sentiment among workers seeking improved public services and greater economic equity.
What Travellers Should Do
If you’re scheduled to travel in Italy on June 20, here’s how to minimize disruption:
- Check transport schedules frequently online, especially Trenitalia and airline websites
- Allow extra travel time to and from airports, train stations, and attractions
- Book flexible tickets when possible
- Use travel insurance that covers strike-related disruptions
- Consider staying centrally or walking distances to reduce dependency on public transport
Conclusion: Expect Widespread Delays, Plan Ahead
Italy’s 24-hour general strike on Friday, June 20, 2025, is set to impact thousands of travellers and commuters. With disruptions expected across air travel, train services, buses, metros, and ferries, anyone traveling to or within Italy should be proactive in checking schedules, adjusting plans, and preparing for potential delays.
While essential services will continue to operate, particularly during peak hours, the effect on leisure travel and tourism may be significant—especially for international tourists arriving in Rome, Milan, or regional hubs.
As Italy calls for national reform, its transportation infrastructure stands at the center of the conversation—reminding travellers that being informed and adaptable is key to a smooth journey in times of civil unrest.
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