Italy domestic flight prices surge for Christmas holidays

Domestic flight tariffs in Italy are seeing significant increases ahead of the Christmas and New Year period, according to a recent survey by Codacons. The investigation focused on travel dates between December 23 or 24 and January 6, a window of high demand that has driven base prices up significantly.

Key routes show substantial costs for round-trip travel. For example, flights from Milan to Reggio Calabria start at 427 euros, while Milan to Trapani starts at 383 euros. Other notable routes include Torino to Reggio Calabria at 359 euros and various connections to Catania from cities like Verona, Bologna, and Venice starting at 340 euros.

Codacons spokesperson Stefano Zerbi noted that this price hike is a recurring annual issue. The surge is attributed to dynamic pricing, where algorithms adjust fares based on real-time demand. The final cost for travelers, particularly students and workers living away from home, may increase further once mandatory or optional add-ons such as baggage, seat selection, and priority boarding are included.