Italian strikes lead Ryanair and easyJet to cancel flights

Italy's national public transport and air traffic controllers strike is affecting flights throughout the country on Friday 12 December, causing delays and hundreds of cancellations.

The low-cost carrier Ryanair has cancelled over 200 international and domestic flights, while a number of easyJet flights have also been cancelled due to the air traffic controllers strike scheduled from 13.00-17.00.

Trade unions representing public transport workers are striking over Italian premier Matteo Renzi's Jobs Act – recently approved legislation designed to shake up Italy's labour market by making it easier for companies to fire employees.

Passengers flying to and from Italy on 12 December are advised to check their flight status online for updates.