With an air traffic controllers’ strike planned in Italy for September 7, 2021, flag carrier Alitalia has been forced to cancel flights and switch some to larger planes. Trade union UNICA has called a national strike from 1.00pm to 5.00pm local time. In addition, local strikes are set to take place at the Roma and Milano area control centers, as well as at Turin Caselle Airport (TRN), Naples International Airport (NAP), Pescara airport (PSR), and Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport (GOA).

To limit the inconvenience to passengers, Alitalia has activated an extraordinary plan that provides for the use of larger airplanes on domestic and international routes, A list on Alitalia’s website shows the airline has cancelled some 70 flights for September 7, 2021. Eurocontrol said the strike will not impact incoming intercontinental flights.

Alitalia will cease operations on October 15, 2021, after being placed into administration in 2017. It is being succeeded by Italia Trasporto Aereo (ITA). For Alitalia tickets purchased on August 24 or earlier, and for travel on October 15 or later, customers can either receive a full refund, or can request a rebooking on a different airline.