26 Jan 2021 | 08:03 PM UTC
Italy: Nationwide general strike to prompt air and ground transport disruptions Jan. 29
Air and rail transport workers to hold nationwide strike in Italy Jan. 29; service disruptions likely.
Event
Public and private transport workers are planning to take part in a nationwide general strike Jan. 29 to denounce government measures to combat the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19), among other issues.
The strike periods vary slightly by sector, as follows:
ENAV Air traffic control (ATC) staff: 1300-1700
Rail transport workers: 0001-2100
Although not all workers will participate, the strikes could cause significant ground and air transport disruptions Jan. 29, potentially beginning several hours before the start of the planned actions. Italian law requires that transportation providers ensure a minimum service level during labor actions, typically guaranteeing key routes and services during rush-hour periods; hence, the work stoppages will probably not be crippling. Lower travel volumes resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic will also likely mitigate the impact of the action. Nevertheless, the ATC strike could prompt flight delays and cancellations at airports nationwide; Alitalia (AZ) has announced the cancellation of a number of domestic and international flights. In addition, many rail services will likely be delayed or canceled, and those services that do run could experience congestion. Residual disruptions could extend beyond the end of the strikes as transport providers resolve their passenger backlogs.
Strike-related demonstrations are possible in city centers nationwide. Although such events will probably transpire without incident, the presence of large numbers of people and associated security measures could prompt localized traffic disruptions.
Advice
Confirm all air and rail transport reservations Jan. 29; do not check out of accommodations until onward travel is confirmed. Check local media sources for up-to-date information on regional public transport information. Consider alternative transport options to mitigate travel disruptions, and allow extra time to reach destinations. Avoid all demonstrations as a standard precaution.
