EU stops Alghero‑Milano air route tender, sparking Sardinian political clash

The European Commission has rejected the tender for the Alghero‑Milano Linate air‑route continuity programme, stating that the original call failed to meet the six‑month publication requirement in the Official Gazette. The decision forced the Sardinian regional government, led by President Alessandra Todde, to cancel the procurement and restart the process.

Opposition groups in the Regional Council, including Forza Italia, UDC, Lega, Fratelli d’Italia and local Sardinian parties, have condemned the regional administration, warning that a three‑month interruption of the service would severely affect commuters, students, patients and the island’s tourism‑driven economy. They are demanding urgent emergency measures and a clear response from the president and the regional executive.

The dispute highlights broader concerns about strategic transport planning for Sardinia and the ability of regional authorities to comply with EU procurement rules.