EasyJet passengers heading to Italy today are being warned by the airline that strikes will take place in the country sparking widespread chaos.

       Brits heading to the European country today can expect serious disruptions, as pilots and flight crews from EasyJet and Aeroitalia stage a four-hour strike between 12pm and 4pm.

       The walkout, announced by multiple unions, is to take place during peak travel hours, potentially causing widespread flight delays and cancellations across the country.

       Organised by ANPAC (Associazione Nazionale Professionale Aviazione Civile) and RSA, the stoppage may appear brief but it could trigger a domino effect of delays across European flight schedules.

       Workers are set to demand wage increases, citing inadequate responses to their requests for contract renewals, which have not materialised satisfactorily. Strikes could impact trains and buses.

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       EasyJet said it plans on continuing operations as usual but advised customers to check the status of their flights before arriving at the airport.

       The airline said: "We plan to operate our full flying programme but we advise customers travelling on February 24 to check the status of their flights on our Flight Tracker page.

       "Or manage their bookings using our disruption portal on our mobile app or website."

       International aviation lawyer Anton Radchenko, head of AirAdvisor, explained that pilot strikes can be particularly costly for airlines.

       He said: "Unlike bad weather, which is usually perceived by the courts as extraordinary circumstances, airline staff strikes are viewed as within an airline's control.

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       "This is because disagreements between airlines and unions can often be settled by improving staff pay or conditions."

       He added: “This could just be the start of a turbulent year for airline strikes, with aviation staff and their unions across Europe pushing for better working conditions and improved perks, like pensions.

       "Airline staff strikes tend to become more prevalent in the summer months, when industrial action by employees can have a greater impact on their employers’ operations."

       The international aviation lawyer alerted passengers that if your flight is cancelled with less than two weeks notice, you may be eligible for between ￡120 and ￡520 in compensation."