Italy is preparing for a wave of transport strikes throughout May 2025 that are expected to cause major disruption across the country’s railways and airports, impacting both domestic and international travel. The walkouts, organized by multiple unions, will affect key hubs like Rome, Milan, and Venice, with long-distance and regional rail services, commuter trains, and aviation operations all set to be disrupted.
Key Strike Dates and Impact
National Rail Strikes: May 5–6
The first major disruption will come from a 24-hour national rail strike beginning at 9 PM on May 5 and ending at 8:59 PM on May 6, led by USB Lavoro Privato. A second, overlapping 8-hour strike is scheduled for May 6, from 9 AM to 5 PM. Major operators such as Trenitalia, Trenord, and FS Group will participate, likely impacting travel in and around key cities and airports, including Milan Malpensa.
Air Transport Strike: May 9
A four-hour nationwide aviation strike will take place on May 9 from 1 PM to 5 PM. Organized by the CUB union, the strike will affect airline operations, ground handling, and airport services at major hubs including Rome Fiumicino, Milan Linate, and Venice Marco Polo. Companies like Swissport Italia and Aviation Services staff are expected to participate, potentially leading to delays and cancellations.
Under EU Regulation EC 261/2004, air passengers affected by strike-related delays or cancellations may be eligible for compensation, rebooking, or refunds. Assistance, including meals and access to communication, must also be provided in the case of delays exceeding two hours.
Trenord Regional Strike: May 27–28
A 23-hour regional rail strike by Trenord workers, led by the Orsa Ferrovie union, is scheduled from 3 AM on May 27 to 2 AM on May 28. This action will disrupt services across Lombardy, including Milan’s commuter network and routes serving Milan Malpensa Airport. Essential services will be guaranteed during peak hours (6–9 AM and 6–9 PM).
Preparing for the Disruptions
Italy’s Transport Ministry maintains an online calendar of scheduled strikes, offering travelers a chance to anticipate disruptions. Train operators like Trenitalia and Trenord also provide real-time updates and ticket rebooking options during strike events. For canceled services, passengers are typically entitled to full refunds or the option to rebook at no cost.
Though transport strikes are not uncommon in Italy, the coordination and scale of these May walkouts signal unusually widespread disruption. Travelers are advised to monitor announcements closely, consider flexible travel options, and allow for additional time when connecting to flights or long-distance rail services.
Conclusion
May 2025 is shaping up to be a challenging month for travel in Italy. With coordinated strikes across rail and air sectors, significant disruption is expected. Travelers are strongly encouraged to check schedules frequently, confirm bookings with transport providers, and consider alternate routes to mitigate inconvenience.
References:
- Italy Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport – Strike Calendar (scioperi.mit.gov.it)
- Trenitalia, Trenord official service alerts
- EU Passenger Rights under EC Regulation 261/2004
