Flight cancellations and delays have been reported at major airports in Italy because of a technical problem with the country’s central air traffic control system. The relevant authorities say the problem is not linked to a cyberattack or any other malicious act.
The impact is also being felt at Athens International Airport ‘Eleftherios Venizelos’, where flights to and from Italy have been delayed, while at least three cancellations of flights from Italian airports have been reported.
Problem with the radar data transmission network
According to available information, the fault is in Italy’s main radar data transmission network. A backup satellite system is being used to send the necessary information to control centres.
The situation has led to a 50% reduction in hourly flight capacity at Athens airport. The problem is affecting both departures and arrivals, as flights from Italy are delayed in taking off, pushing back their arrival times in Athens.
Flights to other destinations also affected
The impact is not limited to flights bound for Italy. Aircraft passing through Italian airspace may also be delayed, even if they are heading to other countries in Western Europe.
According to estimates so far, the problem was not expected to be resolved before 16:00, and the situation remained fluid.
Passengers due to travel to or from Italy, as well as those on flights passing through Italian airspace, are advised to check with their airlines for possible changes to their flight schedules.
SOURCE: ERT