Network fault reduces air traffic capacity
ENAV, Italy’s air navigation service provider, detected anomalies in the data transmission network during the night between Thursday and Friday. The network supports air traffic control services across the country.
Contingency systems initially allowed ENAV to manage traffic without reducing operational capacity. However, the persistent fault and rising traffic volumes prompted restrictions from 06:00 on Friday.
ENAV reduced the capacity to handle aircraft in Italian airspace by 50%, according to reports from Italian news agency ANSA. The measures aimed to maintain operational safety while technical teams worked to restore normal service.
Delays and cancellations affect major airports
Rome Fiumicino reported four cancelled departing flights to Milan Linate, Riyadh, Tirana and Trieste. Around 20 other flights experienced delays ranging from 15 minutes to one hour, according to ANSA. Disruptions also affected Milan Linate, Milan Malpensa and Naples Capodichino. Reports from northern Italy additionally identified delays at Bergamo Airport, including postponed departures and arrivals.
Airport operators Aeroporti di Roma and SEA, which manages Milan’s airports, issued notices about possible delays and cancellations. They advised passengers to check flight status directly with their airlines.
Authorities rule out cyberattack
ENAV said technical checks had identified the source of the anomalies within the data transmission network. The company continued investigating the cause and working to restore full system operations.
The authority ruled out malicious activity, including a cyberattack or sabotage, as the cause of the disruption. Its initial statement also confirmed that contingency systems had supported normal traffic management until 06:00.
As the technical work continued, airlines and airport operators monitored the effects on flight schedules. Passengers were advised to confirm departure and arrival information before travelling to the airport.
