Italy is set to experience widespread transport disruptions in September 2025, with over 20 strike actions scheduled across rail, air, and local transit services.
The strikes, announced by various unions and reported by the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport, are expected to affect both domestic and international travelers throughout the month.
Key sectors impacted include national rail services, airline operations, and public transportation networks in cities such as Rome and Palermo. The disruptions will begin on 4 September and continue through the end of the month, affecting major routes and travel hubs across the country.
Rail Strikes Set to Start the Month
The national rail strike on 4–5 September will begin at 21:00 on Thursday, 4 September, and continue until 18:00 on Friday, 5 September. The walkout will involve both onboard and driving staff from the Ferrovie dello Stato Group. Services affected include high-speed Frecciarossa trains, regional Trenitalia lines, and other intercity connections.
The strike is expected to significantly impact long-distance and regional travel, with delays and cancellations likely to occur throughout the 21-hour action. Union leaders cited labor conditions and contract negotiations as the primary reasons for the walkout.
Air Travel Disruptions on 6 and 26 September
Air transport strikes will affect operations on two key dates. On 6 September, ground handling and flight crew staff will stage walkouts affecting check-in, baggage handling, and ramp services. The strike will run from 12:00 to 16:00 nationwide, with a full 24-hour strike at Milan Linate Airport.
Additionally, EasyJet cabin crew will strike for 24 hours on 6 September, which may lead to widespread disruption on short- and medium-haul routes. Another major air strike is scheduled for 26 September, led by Cub Trasporti, affecting all airport sectors. On the same day, Volotea staff will also strike for 24 hours, organized by Uilt-Uil.
Local Transport and Regional Impacts
In Rome, a four-hour local transport strike is planned on 4 September from 08:30 to 12:30, involving Atac-operated buses, trams, metro lines, and suburban trains. The strike excludes services managed by subcontracted operators. Accessibility features such as elevators and escalators may be unavailable in stations that remain open.
In Sicily, several bus operators—Autolinee Russo, Segesta Autolinee, Interbus, and Etna Trasporti—will participate in a 24-hour regional strike on 8 September, affecting services in Palermo, Enna, and Catania.
The strikes come amid rising tensions between labor unions and transport providers over working conditions, staffing levels, and contract renewals. Travelers in Italy during September are advised to monitor updates from transport operators and consider alternative arrangements where possible.
Summary of Key Strikes – September 2025
- 4–5 September: National rail strike (21:00 to 18:00 next day)
- 4 September: Rome local transport strike (08:30–12:30)
- 6 September: National air transport strike (12:00–16:00); 24-hour strike at Milan Linate Airport
- 6 September: 24-hour EasyJet cabin crew strike
- 8 September: 24-hour regional bus strike in Sicily (Palermo, Enna, Catania)
- 26 September: 24-hour national air sector strike (Cub Trasporti)
- 26 September: 24-hour Volotea staff strike (Uilt-Uil)