Italian EasyJet Pilots to Strike in Late October, Impacting Thousands of European Passengers
Thousands of passengers across Europe are bracing for disruptions to their travel plans in late October as Italian pilots from the budget airline easyJet are gearing up for a four-hour walkout. The strike, scheduled for 27 October from 1 pm to 5 pm, is expected to affect flights in and out of Milan, Naples, and Venice.
Aviation experts are cautioning travellers about potential knock-on effects on the airline’s flight schedule that weekend due to the short strike window. Anton Radchenko, founder of AirAdvisor, highlighted the significance of the strike, noting that as the UK’s largest airline in terms of passenger volume, easyJet will directly impact thousands of passengers across Europe.
Passengers have been advised to anticipate flight disruptions, especially on the eve of the October half-term for UK schoolchildren. Radchenko emphasised the importance of passengers understanding their rights in such situations, urging preparedness for potential delays and cancellations.
While the impending strike may not be as devastating as previous ones, such as the three-day strike in Portugal in August that led to the cancellation of 232 flights, travellers are advised to expect delays if flying with easyJet to Italy on 27 October. Radchenko warned that the disruption could extend to other easyJet services across Europe, affecting flight schedules beyond the strike locations.
In the event of flight cancellations or significant delays exceeding three hours, affected passengers are eligible for compensation ranging from £350 to £520. The airline is also obligated to provide alternative transportation to passengers unable to board their intended flight and offer refreshments during extended waiting times at the airport.
An easyJet spokesperson stated that the airline is working to minimise disruptions should the strike proceed, with plans to operate its full schedule during the strike period. Passengers are advised to check the airline’s website for updates and information on available options in case of flight cancellations.
Travellers are encouraged to stay informed and prepared for potential travel disruptions as the strike date approaches, with easyJet and Italian transport union UIL Trasporti urged to engage in constructive dialogue to avert the impending industrial action.