I might have been lucky for getting changed to direct on the way back. My return was originally via FCO, but was changed to via CDG because of scheduling changes by Alitalia yesterday. Got direct both ways. Saved money on taxi to and from the airport (no tolls, shorter time) better timing (no having to leave work early, not having to have a long Tzom Gedalya fast because of traveling by day).
9/2-9/8.