Sardinia’s Connectivity to Mainland Italy Enhanced by ITA Airways and Volotea Collaboration

Published on December 19, 2025

ITA Airways and Volotea have announced a strategic partnership aimed at improving air connectivity between Sardinia and mainland Italy, with a particular focus on year-round travel for both residents and tourists. The two airlines have submitted a joint bid for the Cagliari–Rome Fiumicino and Olbia–Milan Linate round-trip routes, which are part of Italy’s public service obligation (PSO) tenders. This partnership seeks to ensure reliable, accessible, and frequent flight options on key routes for both leisure and business travelers.

The cooperation between ITA Airways and Volotea builds upon an existing interline agreement and will help enhance service delivery while keeping fares affordable for all passengers. If the joint bid is successful, the airlines plan to form a Temporary Business Association (TBA) to further solidify their collaboration and improve connectivity for Sardinia’s residents and visitors.

Improving Air Connectivity Between Sardinia and Italy’s Mainland

Sardinia, one of Italy’s most popular tourist destinations, has long faced challenges in maintaining consistent and affordable air links to the mainland, particularly during the off-peak seasons. While the island’s beauty and cultural attractions draw millions of tourists each year, seasonal flights often fail to meet the demand for year-round connectivity. By working together, ITA Airways and Volotea aim to address this gap, ensuring that travelers can access Sardinia from key mainland cities such as Rome, Milan, and beyond, throughout the year.

The partnership focuses on maintaining high operational reliability and ensuring that passengers can access competitive fares on these important routes. These efforts will help to sustain and even increase tourism to Sardinia, which boasts stunning beaches, historical sites, and vibrant local culture.

The two airlines’ joint bid for the Cagliari-Rome and Olbia-Milan routes is a significant move in support of the region’s tourism and air travel infrastructure. Sardinia’s unique geographic location means that regular and reliable flights are essential for both residents who need easy access to the mainland and tourists who are eager to explore the island’s rich heritage, picturesque landscapes, and Mediterranean charm.

The Strategic Importance of Sardinia’s Air Routes

The Cagliari-Rome and Olbia-Milan routes are among the most vital air corridors for both Sardinian residents and travelers. These routes connect Sardinia’s two largest cities, Cagliari and Olbia, with the bustling metropolises of Rome and Milan, facilitating not only tourism but also business and personal travel. By improving the connectivity between Sardinia and Italy’s mainland, the partnership between ITA Airways and Volotea will create more travel options, reduce travel times, and offer greater flexibility for passengers.

Rome and Milan are two major gateways to international travel, making them critical hubs for Sardinia’s tourism industry. Cagliari and Olbia are both well-connected by regional airports, but the new partnership aims to solidify these connections further, especially during off-peak times when Sardinia’s airport networks are typically less busy. This year-round connectivity is also expected to support local businesses, providing easier access to the mainland for commercial and professional purposes.

A Collaborative Effort to Strengthen Italy’s Domestic Tourism

As Italy’s domestic tourism continues to grow, particularly in destinations like Sardinia, collaborations like the one between ITA Airways and Volotea are essential in maintaining the flow of visitors across the country. Sardinia remains one of Italy’s top destinations, attracting tourists from around the world for its Mediterranean climate, historical attractions such as Nora, Su Nuraxi, and Neptune’s Grotto, and world-renowned beaches like Costa Smeralda.

Having easy access to mainland cities such as Rome and Milan can significantly enhance the experience for tourists, enabling them to explore Sardinia as part of a wider Italian tour. Moreover, the partnership will help mitigate the logistical challenges of traveling to the island, providing more options for travelers heading to or from the mainland.

The collaboration between Volotea, a leading low-cost airline, and ITA Airways, the Italian flag carrier, further supports the growth of Italian domestic tourism. By offering diverse ticket options and convenient schedules, the two airlines aim to cater to both budget-conscious travelers and those seeking more premium options, expanding their reach to a wider audience.

Tourism Benefits for Residents and International Visitors

The new collaboration also promises benefits for Sardinia’s residents, as more frequent and affordable flights will allow locals to travel between Sardinia and the mainland with greater ease. Sardinia’s residents, who rely on air travel for business and family visits, will gain from more consistent flight schedules and better options for quick, affordable trips to Italy’s major cities.

On the international front, the new routes will also make Sardinia even more accessible for international travelers planning their trips to Italy. Connecting through Rome and Milan, tourists can now explore Sardinia’s island culture, cuisine, and history more easily, making it a more attractive destination for those already visiting other parts of Italy.

Future Prospects and Sustainability in Air Travel

Looking ahead, the ITA Airways and Volotea partnership could evolve into additional routes and services aimed at enhancing connectivity for Sardinia and beyond. The emphasis on operational reliability, affordable fares, and high-frequency services will be central to the growth of this partnership and the success of future developments.

In terms of sustainability, the collaboration could also align with the growing demand for eco-friendly travel options, with both airlines focusing on reducing their carbon footprints by implementing green aviation practices. This is expected to appeal to a growing segment of eco-conscious travelers, while continuing to support the expansion of Italy’s tourism sector.

Conclusion: Strengthening Italy’s Tourism Connectivity

The new partnership between ITA Airways and Volotea is set to redefine connectivity between Sardinia and the mainland, making it easier for both residents and tourists to travel year-round. With joint bids for key domestic routes like Cagliari-Rome and Olbia-Milan, the airlines are helping to increase the flow of passengers, enhance Italy’s domestic tourism, and support Sardinia’s growing importance as a global tourism destination.

By offering affordable flights, expanding route options, and improving travel reliability, this collaboration signals a bright future for air travel in Sardinia and its integration into Italy’s tourism economy.