Some Italian charter/schedule operators have the mentality of children and as such ENAC(Italian CAA) should be acting as the parents. The children will do whatever they have to, to get the upper hand. It is the duty of the parents to keep a controlling eye on them, and keep them within the rules and regulations. But, what happens if those regulations are flawed, flaunted or just ignored!
Of course, we all understand the disadvantage of a level playing field.
FTL's in Italy were appalling with respect to potential crew fatigue and abuse, by certain operators. Recent changes have addressed many anomalies.
Of course, some operators did not roster to such extremes, however, you had no protection if they decided to..(other than job on the line)...and some are far more guilty than others!
As far as in-flight relief for 3 crew duty extension..I can tell you having worked in Italy for 8 years, I could never understand where ENAC drew the line on that one. You operated...and that was that! Again, this issue is now clarified, but it is up to ENAC to enforce the new rules.
For the record, I spent 8 happy years flying from Italy, to some of the most beautiful locations in the World, with some of the most fabulous crews, and just maybe,..... that balanced the equation for me!
To all crews in BPA and my ex AEI colleagues...great guys and gals and happy years spent!