Italy has experienced significant flight disruptions as it approaches the Carnival season, with a total of 396 flights affected on February 7, 2026. Data from AirHelp indicates that 383 flights were delayed, and 13 were canceled across major airports including Rome Fiumicino, Milan Malpensa, Milan Linate, Bergamo, and Catania.
Major Airlines Impacted
Ryanair was the hardest hit, with 121 of its services disrupted. Other airlines, such as ITA Airways and easyJet, also faced challenges during this peak travel period. Average departure delays in the morning exceeded 55 minutes, causing frustrations for many travelers.
Causes of the Disruptions
Ground-handling unions attribute these delays to a combination of factors:
- Staffing shortages due to post-pandemic recovery.
- Slot congestion related to increased Carnival travel demand.
- Heavy rainfall along the Tyrrhenian coast.
In response, airport operators implemented reserve ramp crews and deployed de-icing units. However, airlines have preemptively canceled flights to allow for crew rotation adjustments.
Impact on Corporate Travel
Corporate travel itineraries experienced significant setbacks. Events such as Milan Fashion Week fittings, pharmaceutical congresses in Bologna, and wine-sector trade shows in Verona reported numerous missed connections due to the disruptions.
Advice for Travelers
Travel managers recommend the following strategies for handling travel disruptions:
- Incorporate a four-hour buffer into same-day connection schedules.
- Consider alternative routes through Venice or Naples.
- Check weather clauses before submitting EU261 compensation claims, as many weather-related delays are not eligible for payouts.
Travelers needing to adjust plans should ensure they have the correct travel documents. VisaHQ’s Italy portal offers expedited Schengen visa services, helping travelers minimize disruptions when last-minute changes occur.
Looking Ahead
This incident serves as a test for the upcoming EU Entry/Exit System, which will introduce biometric checks at non-Schengen desks starting in April 2026. Without adequate staffing, similar operational challenges could arise as leisure travel peaks in June.
Practical Tips
To avoid complications, travelers are advised to:
- Monitor flight statuses 24 and 3 hours before departure.
- Opt for flexible corporate fares during mid-February.
- Remember that airlines must provide meals and accommodation during long delays, even if compensation isn’t available.
