Network Fault Disrupts Flights Across Italy

ENAV detected anomalies overnight between Thursday and Friday in the data-transmission network that supports air traffic control across Italy. Contingency systems allowed normal operations until 6 a.m. on Friday, 16 October 2026. ENAV then introduced flow regulation measures that cut capacity to manage aircraft in Italian airspace by about 50%, saying the steps were needed to ensure operational safety. Delays and cancellations hit Rome Fiumicino, Milan Linate, Milan Malpensa, Naples Capodichino and Bergamo. Fiumicino cancelled four departures to Milan Linate, Riyadh, Tirana and Trieste, with around 20 flights delayed 15 minutes to one hour, according to ANSA. The Local cited Milan delays of 30 minutes to more than two hours. Aeroporti di Roma and SEA told passengers to check flight status with airlines. ENAV ruled out a cyberattack or sabotage, said it was using alternative data transmission systems to keep as many departures as possible including intercontinental flights, and was working to identify the cause and restore full operations.