Italy train strike: TILO services affected

Context

In brief

• National strike in Italy from 21:00 on 28 May to 21:00 on 29 May 2025
• The TILO RE80, S10, S30, S40 and S50 trains will not run in Italy
• TILO connections in Switzerland are not affected
• For the S50 line, replacement with direct Stabio-Malpensa Airport buses (without intermediate stops)
• Guarantee bands in force from 6:00 to 9:00 and from 18:00 to 21:00

Key Facts

• What: National strike in Italy with blockade of TILO trains in Italian territory
• When: 21:00 on 28 May 2025 – 21:00 on 29 May 2025
• Where: TILO RE80, S10, S30, S40, S50 lines in Italy
• Who: Trenord, TILO, cross-border transport users
• Amount: Minimum guaranteed services active in the time slots 6:00–9:00 and 18:00–21:00
• Replacement service: Bus without intermediate stops for S50 between Stabio and Malpensa Airport

What changes for cross-border commuters

The national strike called in Italy for 28 and 29 May 2025 directly affects the TILO connections that cross the border. The RE80, S10, S30, S40 and S50 routes will be paralyzed on Italian territory, forcing commuters to review their movements. TILO trains running exclusively in Switzerland will not be interrupted.

The routes involved According to Trenord's official announcement, the lines affected by the strike are: - RE80: Express regional connection - S10: suburban service - S30: suburban service - S40: suburban service - S50: suburban service

These routes will not run in Italy, but TILO connections operating in Switzerland remain regular. It is therefore essential for cross-border commuters to check whether their journey involves crossing the border.

Guaranteed minimum services

During the strike, the guarantee time slots will be active from 6:00 to 9:00 and from 18:00 to 21:00. In these intervals, only the trains included in the list of Minimum Guaranteed Services, which can be consulted on the Trenord website, will circulate. Cross-border commuters who travel in these bands will therefore have to book in advance or opt for alternative solutions.

Bus replacements for the S50 line

In the event that the S50 line does not run, TILO has organized a replacement bus service between Stabio and Malpensa Airport, without intermediate stops. This solution directly affects cross-border commuters who use this connection to reach the international airport.

What cross-border commuters must do 1. Check your route: Check if the route used is among those affected by the strike. 2. Consult the updated timetables: On Trenord and TILO to find out which trains will actually be in circulation. 3. Book alternatives: If your trip falls within the guarantee bands, check the availability of the Minimum Guaranteed Services. 4. Consider the replacement bus: For those using the S50, consider the option of the Stabio-Malpensa bus.

Impact on the Ticino passes

The Brogeda and Chiasso crossings will not be directly affected by the strike, but delays or cancellations of TILO trains in Italy could cause queues at the borders during peak periods. Cross-border commuters using these crossings are advised to leave early or monitor real-time updates.

Comparison with the previous situation Before this strike, TILO connections between Ticino and northern Italy were guaranteed without scheduled interruptions. Now, however, cross-border commuters have to deal with partial suspensions and reduced services, which could lengthen travel times. It is therefore advisable to plan your trip carefully, especially if you depend on routes such as the S50 to reach Malpensa.

Possible scenarios

• Case 1: If your route does not involve the affected routes, there is no change. TILO trains in Switzerland run regularly.
• Case 2: If you use one of the blocked lines, you need to find an alternative (car, replacement bus, other public transport).
• Case 3: If you are traveling within the guarantee bands, check the availability of the Minimum Guaranteed Services to avoid surprises.

Practical advice

• Avoid unnecessary travel during critical time slots (6:00–9:00 and 18:00–21:00).
• Use the TILO app to receive real-time updates on trains in circulation.
• Consider carpooling or other forms of shared mobility to get to your destination.
• Take into account the waiting times at the Brogeda and Chiasso crossings, which may increase due to delays.

Documents and procedures There are no regulatory changes or administrative procedures related to this strike. However, it is useful to keep the ticket or reservation receipt, in case of checks or refund requests. For any refunds, consult the conditions of Trenord or TILO directly on their official websites.

Useful contacts

• TILO: Official website
• Trenord: Official website
• Cantonal Transport Office Ticino: For reports or additional information.

💡 Useful contacts

• TILO official website
• Trenord official website
• Cantonal Transport Office Ticino for reports or additional information.

Operational details

Why the strike affects cross-border commuters

The strike called in Italy has a direct impact on Ticino‑Lombardy cross-border commuters, especially those who use TILO trains as their main means of transport to get to work or for personal trips. The S50 line, for example, is often chosen by commuters who work in Lombardy and live in Ticino, particularly because of its convenient connection to Malpensa Airport. The cancellation of this service will force many to revise their plans.

Alternative routes for cross-border commuters

• Private car: Depart from Ticino and cross the border via the A2/A9 highways or smaller crossings such as Gaggiolo or Ponte Tresa. However, this entails additional costs (fuel, tolls, parking) and travel times that are not always predictable.
• Substitute TILO buses: Only for the S50, departing from Stabio and arriving directly at Malpensa Airport. This solution is limited and does not cover other routes.
• Alternative trains: Some TILO routes could be replaced by services from other operators, but no specific options have been announced yet.
• Remote work: For those who can work from home, this could be a temporary solution to avoid travel.

Comparative tables: before vs after the strike

Impact on permits and taxation

There are no direct implications for work permits (G or B), AVS, LPP, LAMal or withholding tax related to this strike. However, prolonged delays could affect arrival times at work, potentially impacting vacation or leave balances. In such cases, it is advisable to inform the employer in advance to avoid contractual issues.

What the regulations say about delays

The Italy‑Switzerland Convention of 9 March 1976 governs cross-border transport, but it does not provide automatic refunds for strikes or delays attributable to third parties. Cross-border commuters who experience inconvenience because of the strike can therefore:

• Request any refunds directly from Trenord or TILO, according to their company policies.
• Submit reports to the Ticino Cantonal Transport Office for possible interventions.

Tips for Ticino Cross-Border Workers

Here are some practical tips for workers who cross into Italy and reside in Switzerland:

1. Travel early: If you're commuting to Ticino and live in Italy, starting your journey early can avoid peak traffic.

2. Use your own transport: If possible, opt for private transport but consider additional costs.

3. Carpooling: Platforms like BlaBlaCar can help share your car with other commuters.

4. Remote work: If feasible, request remote work for the day of the strike.

Worst-case scenario: What happens if the strike extends?

If the strike prolongs beyond expectations, cross-border workers may face:

• Shortages of staff in Italian businesses if employees can't reach their workplace.
• Logistical issues for those relying on Malpensa Airport (international flights, work travel).
• Increased costs for alternative transport solutions (renting a car, taxis, hotels near the border).

In these cases, maintaining open communication with your employer and planning ahead is crucial.

Comparison with recent strikes:

Recent similar strikes in Italy have caused delays and cancellations for cross-border workers too. However, TILO's response with substitutes (like the S50 bus) represents a positive evolution compared to past responses. Still, attention must remain on Malpensa Airport where dislocations can impact international travel.

Questions from cross-border workers:

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Useful planning tools

To estimate your pension strategy, use the pension planner and the pillar 3 simulator.

Key points

What to do today to prepare for the strike

The first step is to check if your route is among those affected by the strike. Cross-border commuters using lines RE80, S10, S30, S40 or S50 in Italian territory must in fact expect cancellations or delays. Here is an operational checklist to act without surprises:

1. Check your itinerary Access the TILO or Trenord website and enter your route to check if it is affected by the strike. If yes, book an alternative as soon as possible.

2. Download the TILO app The official TILO app sends real-time notifications about cancellations, delays or changes to trains. It is available for iOS and Android.

3. Evaluate replacement service for your S50 If you use the S50 line to reach Malpensa Airport, remember that in case of cancellation a direct Stabio-Malpensa bus will be active without intermediate stops. Check the departure and arrival times on the TILO website.

4. Plan an alternative by car If you have the possibility, organize a carpooling ride or consider the use of the private car. Keep in mind that: - The Brogeda and Chiasso crossings may be subject to queues. - The A2/A9 motorway towards Milan can be congested during rush hour. - It is advisable to leave 30-45 minutes earlier than usual.

5. Check your insurance coverage Although the strike does not affect LAMal or other health insurance, it is useful to check that your travel insurance (if any) covers any delays or cancellations. In case of a refund, keep the ticket receipt and document the inconvenience.

Deadlines and timelines to remember

• 28 May 2025, 21:00: Start of the strike in Italy.
• 29 May 2025, 21:00: End of the strike.
• Guarantee bands: 6:00–9:00 and 18:00–21:00 (Minimum Guaranteed Services only).

If your journey falls into one of these ranges, check in advance which trains will actually be running. The Minimum Guaranteed Services are listed on the Trenord website; consult them to avoid getting stuck.

Step-by-step procedure for S50 users 1. Check if your S50 train has been cancelled: Check on the TILO website or via the app. 2. If yes, book the replacement bus: It will leave from Stabio and arrive directly at Malpensa Airport without stops. 3. Arrive at Stabio station 15 minutes early: Buses will depart according to a predefined timetable, but seats may run out. 4. Keep your ticket handy: It may be required for any checks. 5. Plan your return: After the strike is over, check the TILO train timetables for the return.

What to do in case of misunderstandings If you experience a long delay or cancellation during the strike that prevents you from getting to work, follow these steps:

1. Notify the employer promptly: Explain the situation and ask if it is possible to make up for lost hours or work remotely. 2. Document the inconvenience: Save screenshots of the TILO app, photos of the ticket or any official communications. These documents may be useful for any refund requests or justifications. 3. Contact TILO or Trenord: If you are entitled to a refund, please submit a request via their official channels (email, online form). 4. Report the problem to the Ticino Cantonal Transport Office: You can submit a report via the official website to ask for support.

Advice for the days following the strike Even after May 29, there may be delays or residual inconveniences due to the high influx of passengers. Here's what to do: - Avoid unnecessary travel in the first few days after the strike. - Use the TILO app to monitor up-to-date schedules. - Start at least 20 minutes earlier than usual, especially if you move in the peak ranges.

Useful tools for cross-border commuters

• Calcolatore orari valichi Ticino-Italia: To plan your car journey and avoid queues.
• Comparatore LAMal per frontalieri: If you need to check your insurance coverage in case of an emergency.
• Simulatore busta paga Ticino: To calculate any salary losses in case of unpaid absences due to delays.
• Mappa traffico in tempo reale: To monitor the conditions of the roads in Ticino and Italy.

Urgent contacts for cross-border commuters

• TILO Customer Service: +41 91 850 11 11 (from abroad) or 091 850 11 11 (from Italy)
• Trenord InfoPoint: 892021 (from Italy) or +39 02 7249 4949 (from abroad)
• Ticino Cantonal Police (emergencies): 117
• Cantonal Transport Office Ticino: Official website

Conclusion: Act Early The train strike in Italy on 28-29 May 2025 represents a temporary inconvenience, but for cross-border commuters it is essential to plan their journeys carefully. Check your route, book alternatives and have useful contacts at hand to solve any problems. If the strike causes long delays, remember that communicating with your employer and documenting the disruption are key steps in protecting your rights.

Don't leave everything to the last moment: act today to avoid surprises tomorrow.

💡 Final tip: If you are a regular commuter, consider purchasing a TILO travelcard for the following months. It may be cheaper than single tickets, especially if there are frequent strikes.

Source: ticinonews.ch