Italy Unveils Historic Nonstop Connection to Houston as ITA Airways Launches First-Ever Direct Route from Rome Fiumicino, Expanding North American Network in 2026

Published on December 3, 2025

ITA Airways is set to revolutionize transatlantic travel by launching its groundbreaking nonstop service from Rome to Houston, marking a major milestone in its expansion strategy. Starting May 1, 2026, this direct route will not only enhance connectivity between Italy and the U.S. but also solidify the airline’s growing presence in North America. With Houston as its ninth North American destination, the new service offers passengers seamless access to Italy’s rich cultural heritage and business opportunities, while providing a convenient link for travelers from Texas to explore 16 destinations across Italy. This route highlights ITA Airways’ commitment to offering enhanced travel options, positioning itself as a key player in the competitive long-haul market.

ITA Airways Launches Direct Rome-Houston Route, Expanding North American Presence in 2026

In a groundbreaking move for both Italy and the United States, ITA Airways has announced the launch of its first-ever direct flight between Rome Fiumicino and Houston, Texas. The new route, which will begin operations on May 1, 2026, represents a significant step in the airline’s ongoing expansion and commitment to enhancing travel options between these two major international hubs. With ticket sales now open, this direct connection is set to be a key highlight in ITA Airways’ Summer 2026 schedule.

New Route Details

The direct service from Rome to Houston will initially operate three times per week throughout May 2026. From June through October 2026, the frequency will increase to five weekly flights, catering to both business and leisure travelers. Passengers will travel aboard the Airbus A330-900, a state-of-the-art aircraft known for its fuel efficiency, advanced digital systems, and modern cabin design. This aircraft offers passengers an upgraded travel experience, with spacious seating and exceptional comfort on the long-haul journey.

Rome to Houston Schedule:

• May 1–31, 2026: Wednesday, Friday, Sunday – Departing at 10:20 AM, arriving at 3:40 PM (local time)
• June 1–October 24, 2026: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday

Houston to Rome Schedule:

• May 1–31, 2026: Wednesday, Friday, Sunday – Departing at 6:10 PM, arriving at 11:50 AM (next day)
• June 1–October 24, 2026: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday

A Strategic Expansion into North America

The launch of the Rome-Houston route marks ITA Airways’ ninth direct destination in North America. This expansion reflects the airline’s continued efforts to increase its presence in the competitive long-haul market. Currently, ITA Airways operates direct flights to major U.S. cities such as New York, Boston, Miami, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Washington D.C., Chicago, and seasonal services to Toronto. With Houston now added to its network, the airline strengthens its foothold in the North American market.

Houston, a key business and cultural hub, is the fourth-largest city in the United States and an important gateway to the Gulf Coast region. ITA Airways’ new service will not only provide increased travel options for U.S. passengers heading to Italy but also offer Texans a direct connection to the Italian capital and beyond. The introduction of this route is expected to benefit both business travelers looking to connect with European markets and leisure tourists eager to explore Italy’s rich cultural offerings.

Enhancing Connectivity Between Italy and the U.S.

The Rome-Houston service will further solidify ITA Airways as a key gateway to Italy for U.S. travelers. From Rome Fiumicino, passengers will have access to flights to 16 Italian cities, including Venice, Milan, Florence, and Naples, among others. Additionally, from Milan Linate, ITA Airways offers connections to 12 more Italian destinations, expanding the airline’s reach across Italy.

By expanding its reach, ITA Airways continues to position itself as a vital link for travelers seeking to experience Italy’s world-class culture, cuisine, and design. The direct connection from Houston will be particularly valuable for the growing number of U.S. tourists seeking to experience Italy firsthand, enhancing the airline’s appeal as a reliable and convenient carrier for cross-Atlantic travel.

Aligning with ITA Airways’ Global Strategy

This new direct route between Rome and Houston is part of ITA Airways’ broader strategy to expand its international presence and increase its connectivity worldwide. The airline is preparing to join the Star Alliance in 2026, aligning itself with a global network of carriers and increasing travel options for passengers traveling to and from Italy.

As part of its strategy, ITA Airways continues to enhance its North American services. The launch of the Rome-Houston route, along with its other U.S. services, will position the airline as a leading player in the transatlantic market. By improving connectivity between Italy, Texas, and the Gulf Coast, ITA Airways is set to capitalize on the growing demand for international travel between Europe and the United States, especially as passenger numbers continue to rise following the pandemic recovery.

The Rome-Houston service will provide a crucial link for business travelers between Italy’s commercial hub and the energy and finance capital of Texas. It will also cater to leisure travelers, who will now have access to a more convenient and direct route to Italy. With its modern fleet, increased flight frequency, and extensive onward connectivity from Rome, ITA Airways is committed to providing passengers with more travel options and enhancing their overall travel experience.

ITA Airways is revolutionizing transatlantic travel with its new nonstop service from Rome to Houston, launching on May 1, 2026. This direct route strengthens the airline’s North American presence, offering enhanced travel options between Italy and Texas.

The launch of ITA Airways’ direct flight between Rome and Houston marks a new chapter in the airline’s growing North American presence. The new route offers a vital link for both business and leisure travelers, providing enhanced convenience and access to Italy from Texas. With a commitment to expanding its global network, ITA Airways is poised to strengthen its position as a leading carrier on transatlantic routes, offering a premium travel experience aboard its modern fleet. Passengers can look forward to a seamless travel experience, making it easier than ever to explore Italy, one of Europe’s most popular travel destinations.