EasyJet is urging customers to check the status of flights to and from Italy on Friday (21 October) as a nationwide strike threatens air travel.

The airline has advised customers to allow ‘additional time’ if travelling.

Air traffic and ground control workers within the aviation sector will all strike on that day, the European Organisation for the Safety of Air Navigation (Eurocontrol) confirmed.

More than 200 international and domestic flights have been cancelled by Italian carrier ITA Airways as part of a nationwide 24-hour strike which would affect thousands of holidaymakers, with major hubs including Rome and Milan among those affected.

ITA Airways says it will aim to transfer passengers affected by the cancellations onto other flights.

Public transportation workers have also called for strikes on local and national transport services in Italy. Taxi drivers are also taking part in the industrial action.

An easyJet spokesperson said: “Although this is outside of our control, we would like to reassure customers that we are doing all we can to minimise any disruption that may occur as a result of the strike action.

“Should any flights be cancelled we will contact customers via email and SMS using the details provided at the time of booking and check in.

“For cancelled flights only, we advise customers not to travel to the airport but to transfer their flights free of charge or take a refund.”

The strike action follows similar walkouts already this year over pay disputes.

Travel Gossip has contacted British Airways and Ryanair.