February 16, 2025
Lufthansa Group Welcomes ITA Airways as Newest Member

Lufthansa Group Welcomes ITA Airways as Newest Member

The Lufthansa Group has finalized its 41 percent stakeholding in ITA Airways, marking a significant expansion in the Italian aviation market.
A line of Lufthansa Group aircraft including an ITA Airways aircraft.
Image Credit: Lufthansa Group

The Lufthansa Group has officially acquired a 41 percent stake in ITA Airways. The finalized agreement heralds a significant expansion in the Italian aviation market for the airline Group.

This landmark transaction was finalized between the Italian Ministry of Economy and Finance (MEF) and Europe’s leading aviation group. It leaves MEF holding the remaining 59 percent ownership, establishing a strategic partnership that promises to reshape European aviation.

Timeline of the Acquisition


This milestone follows the agreement made in May 2023 for Deutsche Lufthansa AG’s minority stake acquisition.

The deal recently received crucial approvals from both the European Commission on November 29, 2024, and other international competition authorities. This key approval followed a comprehensive review of market implications and competitive dynamics.

The initial investment phase was executed through a capital increase of 325 million euros. This signalled Lufthansa’s strong interest and commitment to the Italian market.

The agreement includes options for Lufthansa Group to acquire the remaining ITA Airways shares starting this year. This will pave the way for potential full integration in the future.

With this transaction complete, ITA Airways becomes the fifth network airline in the Lufthansa Group family. It joins an elite group of European carriers.

Lufthansa CEO Comments

Deutsche Lufthansa AG CEO Carsten Spohr expressed his enthusiasm. “Today marks a proud moment as we welcome ITA Airways to the Lufthansa Group.”

“The ITA Airways team has demonstrated remarkable success, building an airline that represents national pride through their energy, passion, and expertise. Together, we’ll strengthen both Italian and European aviation markets.”

“It solidifies the Lufthansa Group’s position as Europe’s leading airline group. Our passengers will enjoy enhanced services and better connections starting with the upcoming summer schedule.”

Italy as a Key Market


This acquisition establishes Italy as a new home market for the Lufthansa Group, adding to its existing presence in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and Belgium.

Italy already ranks as the group’s second most important international market after the United States, highlighting the strategic significance of this partnership.

Rome Fiumicino Airport, with its prestigious five-star rating, will serve as the group’s sixth and southernmost hub, while Milan-Linate Airport will play a crucial role serving northern Italy’s prosperous region and its extensive catchment area.

Customer Benefits

ITA Airways will maintain its strong brand identity while developing further under the Lufthansa Group’s experienced guidance. Immediate cooperation agreements will benefit passengers, with ITA Airways frequent flyers soon able to choose between the existing “Volare” program or Lufthansa’s Miles & More loyalty program.

Additional benefits, including codeshare flights, shared lounge access, and planned Star Alliance membership, will roll out progressively, enhancing the travel experience for customers across both networks.

Since its 2021 launch, ITA Airways has shown impressive growth and operational efficiency. The airline operates a modern fleet of 99 Airbus aircraft, including 22 long-haul planes comprising A350-900, A330-900neo, and A330-200 aircraft.

Currently serving nearly 70 global destinations from its dual hubs at Rome Fiumicino and Milan Linate, the airline transported approximately 18 million passengers in 2024.

Closeup of ITA Airways aircraft on taxiway.
Photo Credit: ITA Airways

ITA Airways New Leadership Team


Joerg Eberhart assumes the role of ITA Airways’ new CEO and board member, succeeding the interim leadership of Antonino Turicchi and Andrea Benassi.

Lorenza Maggio joins as Chief Strategy and Integration Officer, bringing extensive expertise to oversee strategic development and Lufthansa Group integration.

Michael Trestl transitions from his position at Austrian Airlines to become ITA Implementation Officer, managing the integration process from Frankfurt headquarters.

Carsten Spohr commented on the appointments.”We’re pleased to have Joerg Eberhart and Lorenza Maggio leading ITA Airways.”

“Their extensive experience will ensure continued success and smooth integration into the Lufthansa Group, supported by Michael Trestl’s proven airline management expertise. This leadership team will be instrumental in realizing our shared vision for ITA Airways’ future within the Lufthansa Group.”

Click the banner to subscribe to our weekly newsleter.

Click the photo to join our WhatsApp channel so then you can stay up to date with everything going on in the aviation industry!

Facebook
Twitter (X)
LinkedIn
Pinterest
Reddit
WhatsApp
Email
Threads

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *