Italy’s Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport has issued an emergency order to postpone a nationwide airport strike originally scheduled for 16 February, just two weeks before the conclusion of the Milan–Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics. The move aims to prevent disruptions to Olympic travel, as civil-aviation unions had planned a 24-hour walkout that could have stranded thousands and impeded transportation to major venues in Lombardy and the Dolomites.
The strike has been rescheduled for 26 February, after the Olympic events, providing airlines time to reconfigure flight schedules and manage passenger re-accommodations. Italian law allows for such interventions during national emergencies of public importance. Airlines including ITA Airways, Vueling, and easyJet at Milan airports were affected, with most flights outside legally protected hours.
Travel managers are advised to inform travelers about potential cancellations and consider rerouting options through airports in Zurich, Munich, or Vienna. This incident is part of a series of February transportation disruptions, including planned railway strikes and threats from ground handling services. Authorities emphasize the importance of flexible planning and preparedness during this period of heightened activity.
VisaHQ offers digital visa services to facilitate entry during this time. Travelers are encouraged to stay updated on the latest developments to avoid operational delays and ensure smooth participation in Olympics-related travel.
