Summer 2025 is well underway, and if you’re preparing to travel to Italy—whether to view your future home or enjoy a holiday—there are important new airport rules to be aware of. Recent changes at Italian airports are designed to make travelling smoother and more convenient, both for domestic flights and international journeys within the Schengen Area.
Here’s a quick guide to the key updates that could affect your trip:
No more document checks at the gate
One of the biggest changes is that, starting July 2025, passengers at Italian airports won’t have to show their ID at the gate along with their boarding pass. According to Italy’s Civil Aviation Authority (ENAC), this change will speed up boarding and reduce queues, making your travel experience more relaxed. You’ll still need to show your passport or ID during check-in and security screening, but no longer at the gate.
Easier rules for liquids in hand luggage
If you’re planning to fly with your favourite toiletries or liquids, there’s good news—but with some limits. The European Civil Aviation Conference has approved a new rule allowing liquids in containers larger than 100ml in hand luggage. However, this currently applies only at five Italian airports equipped with advanced scanning technology:
- Rome Fiumicino
- Milan Linate
- Milan Malpensa
- Bologna
- Turin
At these airports, your liquids won’t need to be in the small 100ml bottles inside a transparent bag. But at other airports, the old rules still apply: liquids must be in containers no larger than 100ml, packed inside a clear, resealable one-litre bag, and taken out during security checks.
Travelling with pets: new cabin rules
For those bringing pets along, there’s a welcome update. Pets weighing over 8-10kg may now be allowed to travel in the cabin, under new guidelines issued by ENAC. This is a cultural shift recognising the importance of animals in people’s lives and balancing pet welfare with passenger safety.
Airlines can decide whether to adopt these rules, but if they do, pets must travel in suitable carriers secured to the seat, placed by a window (never by emergency exits). There will be limits on the number of pets per flight and special zones for passengers with allergies or who prefer to avoid animals nearby.
If you’re thinking of moving to Italy with a pet or simply visiting with your furry friend, it’s worth checking your airline’s policy and the airport you’ll be using.
Planning your trip to Italy?
Whether you’re visiting for property viewings, to finalise a purchase, or simply exploring, these changes aim to make your journey hassle-free. Keep these new regulations in mind to ensure a smooth experience at Italian airports this summer.
And if you’d like advice on the best regions to buy property, local services, or practical tips for moving to Italy, stay tuned to idealista/news for expert guidance.