Three flights from Gatwick have been cancelled as Italian air traffic controllers were due to strike today.
The stoppage is being called in protest at plans by the government of Silvio Berlusconi to reform Italy's employment laws and affects all transport in Italy.
The protest comes amid a growing dispute over labour rights, following the recent announcement by car maker Fiat of plans to lay off a fifth of its workforce.
Two flights with Alitalia to Venice and one flight due to be going to Florence with Meridiana have been cancelled.
Three arrivals from Italy have also been scrapped.
A spokesman at Gatwick said: "It isn't impacting on any other services, just the direct flights to Italy."
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