Lufthansa Group Expands Its European Network by Acquiring a Forty One Percent Stake in ITA Airways, Setting the Stage for Future Growth and Collaboration

Written By: Binoy Mehera

Binoy Mehera

A curious mind driven by a passion for storytelling, I find inspiration in uncovering hidden perspectives, exploring diverse experiences, and shaping ideas into narratives that leave an impact. With three years of experience in journalism and content creation, I have developed a strong instinct for identifying meaningful stories, blending research with creativity, and presenting information in a way that connects with readers. My storytelling journey is guided by a fascination for culture, travel, lifestyle, and the human experiences that define our world. I aim to create narratives that not only inform but also spark curiosity, evoke emotions, and offer audiences a deeper understanding of every story.

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January 17, 2025 11:19 PM

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ITA Airways has officially become part of the Lufthansa Group, with the German aviation leader acquiring a 41 percent stake in the Italian airline. The agreement with the Italian Ministry of Economy and Finance (MEF), which retains a 59 percent share, was finalized today.

Initially agreed upon in May 2023, the partnership received regulatory approval from the European Commission in November 2024, along with support from global competition authorities. A €325 million capital investment marks the first phase, with options for Lufthansa to acquire full ownership in the future.

Now the fifth network carrier in the Lufthansa Group, ITA Airways will benefit from expanded connectivity and resources, strengthening its presence in European aviation. This milestone positions both airlines for growth and innovation in the competitive travel market.

Carsten Spohr, Chief Executive Officer Deutsche Lufthansa AG, says: “We are proud to finally welcome ITA Airways to the Lufthansa Group. I would like to thank everyone who has contributed to this, especially in Rome, Brussels, Berlin and Frankfurt. The ITA Airways team has written an impressive success story in recent years and, with great energy, passion and expertise, has built an airline that is already the pride of an entire nation. We look forward to continuing this success story of ITA Airways together. With our investment, we will now strengthen the Italian and European aviation market and the position of the Lufthansa Group as number one in Europe. Our joint passengers worldwide will benefit from improved offers and optimized connections as early as this upcoming summer flight schedule.”

Italy Becomes a Key Home Market for Lufthansa Group

Italy is now set to become an integral “home market” for the Lufthansa Group, joining Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and Belgium. Already the second most important international market for the group after the United States, Italy will gain even greater prominence with the inclusion of ITA Airways. The five-star Rome Fiumicino Airport will serve as the sixth and southernmost hub for Lufthansa, while Milan Linate, situated in the economically vibrant northern region, will play a crucial role as a metropolitan gateway with the EU’s second-largest catchment area.

Strengthening the ITA Airways Brand

ITA Airways will retain its identity as a strong, standalone brand while benefiting from its integration into the Lufthansa Group. With the closing of the acquisition, both entities can begin implementing cooperation agreements designed to enhance passenger experience. Soon, ITA Airways’ frequent flyers will be able to earn and redeem miles not only through its existing “Volare” loyalty program but also in Lufthansa’s “Miles & More.” Additionally, Lufthansa passengers will enjoy reciprocal benefits on ITA Airways flights. Plans for further integration include joint codeshare routes, shared lounge access, and ITA Airways’ entry into the Star Alliance.

A Modern and Growing Fleet

Since its launch in 2021, ITA Airways has rapidly grown into a young, forward-looking airline. Its environmentally friendly fleet of 99 Airbus aircraft includes 22 long-haul models like the A350-900, A330-900neo, and A330-200. Operating from its hubs at Rome Fiumicino and Milan Linate, the airline serves nearly 70 destinations worldwide. In 2024, ITA Airways transported approximately 18 million passengers, underscoring its position as a key player in European aviation.

Leadership for the Next Chapter

The integration process will be guided by a new leadership team, appointed to align ITA Airways with the Lufthansa Group’s strategic goals:

• Joerg Eberhart (54) will assume the role of CEO, taking over responsibilities previously managed by Antonino Turicchi and Andrea Benassi.
• Lorenza Maggio (47) will serve as Chief Strategy and Integration Officer (CSIO), focusing on the airline’s strategic growth and seamless integration into the Lufthansa Group.
• Michael Trestl (39) has been appointed as ITA Implementation Officer, overseeing the airline’s full integration. A former Chief Commercial Officer at Austrian Airlines, Trestl will transfer to Lufthansa Group headquarters in Frankfurt for this role.

A Vision for the Future

With ITA Airways now firmly part of the Lufthansa Group, Italy’s aviation market is set to experience a period of growth, innovation, and enhanced connectivity. Through strategic leadership, collaboration, and a commitment to excellence, both Lufthansa and ITA Airways are poised to deliver unparalleled value to passengers worldwide.

“I am delighted that we can appoint two managers from our own ranks to the management of ITA Airways: Joerg Eberhart and Lorenza Maggio,” says Carsten Spohr. “With their extensive experience and expertise, they will continue ITA Airways’ successful course and quickly integrate the airline into the Lufthansa Group. With Michael Trestl, an experienced airline manager will take over the integration task in the group.”