Italy’s air traffic cut 50% after network problems as delays spread nationwide

Italy has reduced the number of aircraft it can handle in its airspace by 50% on Friday due to overnight issues with the data transmission network that supports air traffic control services across the country, according to air navigation company ENAV. The company dismissed the possibility of a cyberattack.

ENAV utilized alternative data transmission systems to facilitate as many departures as possible early Friday, including international flights, while operating at half of its normal air traffic capacity. Measures were put in place to manage flight flows and decrease the number of aircraft that could be accommodated in Italian airspace when traffic surged and the problems continued.

Delays were experienced at various airports nationwide, such as Rome’s Fiumicino airport, as well as those serving Milan and Bergamo. ENAV stated that technicians had identified the anomalies as being linked to the data transmission network and were utilizing all available resources to restore full operations and mitigate disruption. The company ruled out any malicious activity, emphasizing that flight operations remained secure.