In a statement, Enac said Ryanair was "systematically" failing to comply with Italy’s regulations on social distancing.

It also warned it could order the budget carrier to operate at 50% capacity or even suspend its permit to fly to Italy altogether if it did not fully enforce the country’s rules.

Enac also raised concerns about failures to enforce mask wearing by passengers, and to instruct passengers to disembark in an orderly fashion.

Airlines can operate to Italy at full capacity if they ensure social distancing is respected before and after take-off, during boarding and disembarkation, and during any shuttle transfers.

Staff and passengers alike are required to wear masks throughout the flight, and change them every four hours where necessary.

A Ryanair spokesperson said the airline was committed to the highest level of safety for passengers and crew at all times, branding Enac’s claims "factually inaccurate".

"Ryanair complies fully with the measures set out by the Italian government, and our customers can rest assured we are doing everything to reduce interaction on both our aircraft and at airports to protect the health of our passengers.”