On Wednesday, April 9, 2025, EasyJet flight attendants initiated a four-hour strike from 10:30 AM to 2:30 PM, marking the first mobilization of the airline's cabin crew since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic. The strike, organized by the unions Filt Cgil, Fit Cisl, and Uiltrasporti, is a response to deteriorating working conditions, which the unions claim have worsened significantly over time.
The unions have expressed serious concerns regarding increasingly heavy shifts and tight schedules that not only affect the physical and mental well-being of the flight crews but also compromise the quality of service provided to passengers. "We have long denounced heavy shifts and programmed rotations at the limit, which have a direct impact not only on the well-being of the crews but also on the quality of service offered to passengers," stated a representative from the unions.
Furthermore, the unions pointed out that the airline's decision to outsource key scheduling offices has led to increased disorganization, making it more difficult to assign hotels and transfers for the crew, thus exacerbating operational fatigue. The unions criticized the company for its unilateral and arbitrary interpretation of contracts, which they argue undermines respect for established rules and generates significant discontent among workers.
In addition to the EasyJet strike, disruptions are expected across the air transport sector on the same day due to simultaneous strikes by workers from Sea and Gesap. The Sea employees, who serve as drivers at Milan's Linate and Malpensa airports, will also stop working from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Meanwhile, the Gesap workers, who manage the "Falcone e Borsellino" airport in Palermo, will strike during the same hours.
The National Civil Aviation Authority (Enac) has confirmed that flights will still be guaranteed during the strike hours in designated protection time slots from 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM and from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM. However, passengers are advised to prepare for possible cancellations or delays during the strike period, particularly in the hours following the protest.
EasyJet has provided guidance for passengers whose flights may be affected. Travelers can access options through the airline's website or app under the 'Manage Your Bookings' section. If a flight is canceled, passengers can switch to another flight at no additional cost, book seats on the next available flight, or opt for a voucher valid for 12 months for the full value of their canceled flight. Refunds can also be requested, which will be processed back to the original payment method.
In cases of delays, the airline outlines that passengers may be eligible for vouchers depending on the duration of the delay. For example, passengers on flights delayed by two hours or more (for flights up to 1,500 km) or three hours or more (for flights over 1,500 km) may receive compensation. If the delay exceeds five hours, travelers can modify their flight to a later date or cancel for a full refund.
The unions have reiterated their willingness to reopen a constructive dialogue with the airline management, hoping to restore a climate of cooperation that prioritizes the dignity of work and the quality of service offered to passengers. "We reaffirm our readiness to reopen a serious and constructive dialogue, as was the case in the past, to restore a climate of confrontation that places the dignity of work and the quality of service at the forefront," the unions concluded.
As the strike unfolds, passengers traveling with EasyJet and other affected airlines are advised to stay informed about their flight status and to prepare for potential disruptions. With the ongoing challenges in the aviation industry, the situation highlights the need for improved working conditions and communication between airline management and staff.
