August was one of the worst months on record for the Fiumicino airport in Rome. The baggage handling record of Alitalia is so bad that they are now under investigation and risk to have the right to handle baggage removed. Even the mayor of Rome lost his baggage through an Alitalia flight.
During the first week of August only 46% of baggage was delivered right after the flight, while the required level is 90%. Alitalia has already been fined 30 times in July at 2000 euro per fine (one for each day) and will face the same level for August.
In addition, more that 56% of the Italian airlines flights were delayed, a level not acceptable for the Italian Aviation authority.
It seems the problem stems for inadequate staffing levels and old baggage handling technology. A renewal program is in place but will not be completed until 2012.
If Alitalia does not manage to improve their record they risk loosing their aviation license.
