COLOGNE- Lufthansa Group has officially acquired a 41 percent stake in ITA Airways (AZ), the Italian airline, marking a significant expansion of its network. This transaction positions Lufthansa as a dominant player in European aviation, with Italy now becoming its sixth home market.
The strategic investment, approved by European and other international competition authorities, enables the Lufthansa Group to integrate ITA Airways into its operations, strengthening its network and enhancing connectivity for passengers worldwide.
Photo: Lufthansa GroupLufthansa Group Acquires Stakes ITA Airways
In a deal finalized between Lufthansa Group and the Italian Ministry of Economy and Finance (MEF), Lufthansa acquired 41 percent of ITA Airways (AZ) through a capital increase of €325 million.
The remaining 59 percent will initially remain with MEF, but options for full acquisition have been outlined and can be exercised from this year.
This acquisition is more than a financial transaction, it is a calculated move to consolidate Lufthansa’s presence in the lucrative Italian aviation market.
Italy is Lufthansa’s second largest international market after the US, outside its primary home markets of Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and Belgium.
Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO) will now serve as Lufthansa Group’s southernmost hub, while Milan Linate (LIN) will play a pivotal role in connecting the economically vibrant northern region of Italy.
With ITA Airways now part of the Lufthansa Group, passengers can expect significant improvements in connectivity and service.
Cooperation agreements are already in motion, and ITA Airways’ frequent flyers will soon benefit from dual loyalty programs—Volare and Lufthansa’s Miles & More.
Miles earned can be redeemed across ITA Airways and Lufthansa-operated flights, offering greater flexibility and benefits.
Further integration includes plans for joint codeshare agreements, shared lounge access, and ITA Airways’ anticipated admission to the Star Alliance aviation network.
Photo: EurospotITA Airways History
Founded in 2021, ITA Airways (AZ) is a young airline with an eco-conscious, state of the art Airbus fleet of 99 aircraft, including long-haul models such as the Airbus A350-900 and A330-900neo.
With nearly 70 destinations in its portfolio, ITA Airways carried approximately 18 million passengers in 2024, cementing its role as a key player in global aviation.
Its primary hubs at Rome Fiumicino and Milan Linate are well-regarded for their strategic locations and passenger services.
Photo: EurospotITA Airways Leadership Changes
Lufthansa Group has appointed Joerg Eberhart as the new CEO of ITA Airways. Eberhart, with his extensive experience, will oversee the airline’s operations alongside Lorenza Maggio, the newly appointed Chief Strategy and Integration Officer (CSIO).
Maggio will spearhead ITA Airways’ strategic development and ensure a smooth transition into the Lufthansa Group.
Michael Trestl, previously with Austrian Airlines (OS), has been designated as ITA Implementation Officer, tasked with coordinating the airline’s holistic integration into Lufthansa’s ecosystem.
Lufthansa Group CEO Carsten Spohr lauded ITA Airways’ achievements, highlighting the airline’s transformation into a source of national pride for Italy.
He emphasized that the partnership would bolster the Italian and European aviation markets, further cementing Lufthansa’s position as the leading European carrier.
This strategic expansion aligns with Lufthansa’s broader vision of providing optimized connections and services to global travelers.
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