Rome–Fiumicino Leonardo da Vinci International Airport (FCO)

Common Complaints

• Excessive Immigration and Passport Control Wait Times: This is a major and frequent complaint, with reports of "chaotic, massive maze of lines" and waits of 2.5 hours or more for non-EU travelers at passport control, often with only a few counters open.
• Rude and Unhelpful Staff: Many reviews highlight experiences with "extremely rude and aggressive" or "surly" staff who are perceived as unhelpful and sometimes pretend not to understand English.
• Inadequate Seating and Comfort: A recurring issue is the lack of sufficient seating in gate areas, forcing travelers to stand for long periods, and some areas are described as noisy and too bright for resting.
• Poor Signage and Disorganization: Travelers report difficulty finding ticket counters and gates, with some experiencing "mob mentality" in queues due to poor organization and unclear markings.
• Cleanliness Issues: While some areas are praised for cleanliness, other reviews mention dirty restrooms, bird feces, and a general lack of maintenance in parts of the airport.
• "Pirate" Taxi Scams: Arriving travelers are warned about unofficial taxi drivers attempting to overcharge or scam passengers, emphasizing the need to use official taxi stands.

In summary, while FCO has made strides in modernizing its infrastructure and offers good connectivity, the passenger experience is significantly hampered by critically long immigration queues, often coupled with perceived poor staff attitudes and a lack of basic comfort amenities like adequate seating. Travelers are advised to allow ample time, especially for international arrivals and connections, and be wary of unofficial transportation.