ITA Airways Debuts First-Ever Nonstop Rome–Houston Flights, Opening New Horizons for Transatlantic Travelers and Strengthening U.S.–Italy Connectivity

Published on December 3, 2025

ITA Airways has officially launched its historic nonstop service connecting Rome Fiumicino Airport with Houston, Texas, marking the first direct air link between the two cities. Set to commence on 1 May 2026, the new route expands the airline’s transatlantic network, providing travelers with faster, more convenient connections between Italy and the United States. The service is designed to enhance business, tourism, and cultural exchange, positioning Rome as a central gateway to Europe while strengthening Italy’s presence in the U.S. market.

The route will begin with three weekly flights in May, operating on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, before increasing to five weekly departures from June through October 2026. ITA Airways will operate the service using its Airbus A330-900 aircraft, a next-generation airliner renowned for fuel efficiency, cutting-edge technology, and a modern, passenger-focused cabin design.

Summer 2026 Flight Timetable

Rome Fiumicino → Houston

• 1–31 May: Wednesday, Friday, Sunday – Departure 10:20, Arrival 15:40
• 1 June–24 October: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday

Houston → Rome Fiumicino

• 1–31 May: Wednesday, Friday, Sunday – Departure 18:10, Arrival 11:50 (+1)
• 1 June–24 October: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday

Enhancing the North American Network

With this new connection, ITA Airways now serves nine destinations in North America, complementing existing routes to major cities including New York, Boston, Miami, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Washington D.C., Chicago, and seasonal service to Toronto. The Rome–Houston route will not only provide a more direct option for travelers but also reinforce Italy’s status as a central gateway to Europe and the Mediterranean.

The service also strengthens domestic Italian connectivity. From Rome Fiumicino, passengers can access 16 Italian airports, while Milan Linate provides connections to an additional 12 destinations. This network allows travelers from Houston and other U.S. cities to explore Italy’s cultural heritage, cuisine, and scenic destinations with greater ease, while also offering seamless onward travel to Europe.

Strategic Economic and Travel Benefits

The nonstop Rome–Houston service holds significant economic and strategic value. It facilitates business travel between the Gulf Coast region and Italy, supports tourism growth, and encourages cultural exchange. By eliminating layovers, the route provides a faster, more convenient alternative for travelers, enhancing commercial and economic engagement across both regions.

Houston benefits from improved international accessibility, positioning the city as a hub for European travel and promoting broader economic opportunities. Meanwhile, Italy gains access to a wider segment of U.S. travelers, strengthening its tourism industry and fostering stronger cultural and economic connections across the Atlantic.

Global Connectivity and Strategic Expansion

The Rome–Houston flight aligns with ITA Airways’ broader international growth strategy. With its planned entry into the Star Alliance in 2026 and integration into the Lufthansa Group, ITA Airways will expand global connectivity, enabling passengers to travel efficiently across Europe and beyond. The new route further positions the airline as a key link between Italy and North America, offering a competitive and convenient travel solution for both business and leisure passengers.

Passenger Experience and Advantages

Passengers on this route will travel aboard the Airbus A330-900, featuring advanced cabin systems, spacious seating, and a modern in-flight environment designed for comfort and efficiency. The airline’s enhanced service standards ensure travelers enjoy a seamless journey, while the onboard experience reflects Italian hospitality, culture, and design. Flexible scheduling and multiple weekly departures offer additional convenience for passengers traveling for work or leisure.

Looking Forward

The launch of direct flights between Rome and Houston represents a major milestone for ITA Airways’ North American expansion. The route combines state-of-the-art aircraft, improved flight frequency, and robust onward connections, offering travelers an efficient, high-quality option for transatlantic travel. This new service strengthens economic, cultural, and tourism ties between Italy and the U.S., while reinforcing ITA Airways’ position as a leading carrier connecting Italy to key global markets.