Lufthansa Group has officially acquired a 41% stake in Italian airline ITA Airways (AZ), further solidifying its position in the European aviation market. With this move, Italy becomes the group’s sixth core market.
€325 Million Strategic Investment
As part of an agreement with the Italian Ministry of Economy and Finance (MEF), Lufthansa acquired a 41% stake in ITA Airways for €325 million. The remaining 59% of the company remains under MEF for now, but Lufthansa has the option to gain full control later this year.
This acquisition is more than a financial transaction; it aligns with Lufthansa’s strategy to strengthen its presence in the Italian aviation market, which is its largest international market after Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and Belgium.
Key Hubs in Rome and Milan
- Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO): Will become Lufthansa Group’s southernmost hub.
- Milan Linate Airport (LIN): Will cater to the economically strong northern region of Italy.
With ITA Airways integrated into the Lufthansa Group, passengers can look forward to improved connectivity and enhanced service quality.
Loyalty Program Collaboration
- ITA Airways’ Volare program will integrate with Lufthansa’s Miles & More loyalty program.
- Passengers will enjoy flexibility in using miles across both airlines.
Plans also include ITA Airways joining the Star Alliance network and expanding codeshare agreements.
Leadership Changes at ITA Airways
- Joerg Eberhart has been appointed as the new CEO of ITA Airways.
- Lorenza Maggio will serve as Chief Strategy and Integration Officer, spearheading the airline’s strategic development.
- Michael Trestl will oversee ITA Airways’ integration into the Lufthansa Group.
Lufthansa Group CEO Carsten Spohr highlighted ITA Airways as a symbol of national pride for Italy and expressed optimism about the partnership strengthening Italy’s aviation sector and the broader European market.
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