A protest by former Ilva steelworkers in Taranto has disrupted access to Eni’s refinery, prompting Aeroporti di Puglia to warn of possible aircraft-fuel limitations at Bari, Brindisi, Foggia and Taranto-Grottaglie. NOTAMs took immediate effect and remain valid until 12:00 on 14 October, although flights and airport operations continued without announced cancellations or suspensions.
The blockade, linked to opposition to the planned closure of the steelworks’ hot area and uncertainty over jobs, has prevented fuel tankers from leaving the refinery normally. Thirty-seven tankers were reportedly waiting inside the facility as the protest continued.
Eni declared a fuel shortage at Bari and Brindisi airports, while more than 50 of approximately 300 Enilive service stations had reportedly run out of fuel. The company described the Taranto refinery as a major supply hub for Puglia, Basilicata and Calabria, serving airports, emergency services and fuel stations operated by Eni and other suppliers.
Aeroporti di Puglia is monitoring developments and awaiting the restoration of normal distribution. Prolonged tanker delays could affect airline uplift planning and regional airport operations, but available information does not indicate cancellations, diversions or actual flight interruptions.