Italy Halves Air Traffic Amid Air Traffic Control Network Issues

Italy has cut the number of aircraft handled in its airspace by half due to overnight issues affecting the data transmission network for air traffic control, according to air navigation company ENAV. The company stated that the problems did not stem from a cyberattack.

ENAV reported that it was utilizing alternative data transmission systems to facilitate as many departures as possible on Friday morning, including intercontinental flights, while operating at 50% of its normal air traffic capacity. Contingency systems had initially allowed air traffic to proceed normally until 6 a.m.

However, as air traffic increased and the transmission problems persisted, measures were implemented to regulate flight flows and reduce the volume of aircraft within Italian airspace. These disruptions led to delays at airports across Italy, including Rome’s Fiumicino Airport and airports serving Milan and Bergamo.

Technicians have identified the anomalies within the data transmission network and are dedicating all available resources to restore full operations and minimize ongoing disruptions, ENAV said. The company reiterated that flight operations remained safe and malicious activity was not a factor.