European Strikes Could Disrupt Late-October And November Trips: Italy, France Among Countries Affected

Travellers planning trips across Europe in late October and November 2026 could face transport disruptions as unions in several countries prepare industrial action affecting rail services, airports and local public transport.

Italy has several strike notices listed for the coming weeks, while unions in France have called a nationwide strike day on November 5. In the Netherlands, regional transport unions have warned of further action, with dates potentially announced at short notice. The planned walkouts could affect holidaymakers, business travellers and passengers connecting between airports and city centres.

However, a strike notice does not automatically mean every flight or train will be cancelled. The impact will depend on the workers involved, the location and the services maintained during each walkout.

Italy: October 30 General Strike Could Affect Flights And Trains

Italy is among the countries facing several scheduled transport strikes.

A nationwide general strike is listed for Friday, October 30. Rail services are expected to be affected from 9 pm on Thursday, October 29, until 8:59 pm on Friday, October 30. Ground staff at Pisa and Florence airports are also listed for a 24-hour strike on October 30, potentially disrupting travel to and from Tuscany.

Further industrial action is listed for November, including:

• November 6: A four-hour air traffic control strike at Bari airport.
• November 13: Planned action affecting Milan’s ATM public transport network and ATVO bus services connecting Venice Marco Polo Airport with Venice and Mestre.
• November 20–21: A national rail-sector strike listed from the evening of November 20 until the evening of November 21.
• November 21–22: Further air traffic control action and a separate airport security strike at Venice Marco Polo Airport.

Passengers travelling through Italy should check their airline and rail operator’s service announcements before departure, particularly if their itinerary involves multiple connections.

France: Nationwide Strike Planned For November 5

France is also preparing for possible transport disruption on Thursday, November 5, when major trade union confederations have called a nationwide strike and protest day over the proposed 2027 budget.

Rail unions have indicated that they will join the action. Train services and local public transport could therefore face delays, reduced schedules or cancellations, although detailed service forecasts were not available in the travel alert published on October 16.

Travellers planning to reach Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport by train should pay particular attention to service updates and consider allowing additional time for their airport transfer.

The extent of any disruption to flights will depend on whether aviation workers participate and on subsequent airline or airport announcements.

Netherlands: Regional Transport Action May Continue

The Netherlands could see further disruption to regional bus and transport services as unions seek progress in negotiations with employers.

According to the October 16 travel update, unions have warned of recurring action until Christmas, with details announced at short notice. The dispute does not currently include the national rail operator NS or city transport services in Amsterdam, Rotterdam and The Hague, according to the report.

Travellers visiting smaller towns or relying on regional buses should check journey planners shortly before travelling, especially when connecting to an airport or an international train.

What Travellers Should Do Before Their Trip

Passengers can reduce the risk of missing connections by checking official transport updates and keeping alternative arrangements available.

Travel experts recommend that passengers:

• Check bookings regularly: Monitor airline, airport and rail operator websites for changes to schedules.
• Allow extra time: Leave a larger buffer for airport transfers and international train connections on strike days.
• Check alternative routes: Identify other trains, buses or transport options before departure.
• Keep booking details updated: Ensure airlines and travel providers can contact passengers about cancellations or schedule changes.
• Review travel insurance: Check the policy’s terms for strike-related delays, accommodation expenses and missed connections.

Travellers should also check whether their airline or railway operator offers rebooking or refunds if a service is cancelled. Eligibility for compensation depends on the circumstances, the applicable rules and the type of transport affected.

Will European Travel Be Completely Disrupted?

No. The strike notices cover specific dates, locations and categories of workers, rather than indicating a complete shutdown of European transport.

Some services may continue operating, while others could run reduced timetables. Strike dates can also be changed, suspended or cancelled following negotiations.

Travellers with plans in Italy, France or the Netherlands should therefore confirm their individual journeys with the relevant operator rather than cancelling trips solely because a strike has been announced.

Bottom line: October 30 in Italy and November 5 in France are important dates for travellers to watch, while additional rail, airport and regional transport action is listed for November. Checking official updates before leaving for the airport or station will be essential for avoiding last-minute travel problems.