Italy cuts air traffic by HALF after overnight data fault cripples nationwide control network

Italy's air traffic authority ENAV has cut the number of aircraft allowed in Italian airspace by 50% after faults were discovered in the data transmission network that underpins air traffic control services across the country. Travellers face widespread delays and cancellations at airports including Rome and Milan. ENAV says the source of the fault has been identified and restoration work is under way. Authorities have ruled out malicious activity.

Rome airports operator ADR has urged passengers to contact their airlines directly as flight disruptions spread.

Milan airports company SEA issued an identical alert, signalling the chaos is not confined to the capital.

ENAV brought in the capacity restrictions as a temporary measure after the network faults came to light overnight.