Danilo Toninelli, the Italian transport minister, has commented on national radio that he hopes there will a final decision on the future of Alitalia by the end of April. Alitalia was placed into administration in 2017 and has so far failed to confirm a bidder/partner willing to inject funds into the carrier.
Italy’s Ferrovie dello Stato (FS) has bid for up to 30% of the airline, while Delta Air Lines is interested in taking 15%, and the Italian Treasury another 15%, if various media reports are to be believed. This still leaves a remaining 40% outstanding. The bid deadline is April 30.
Italian unions for Alitalia pilot and cabin crews — ANPAC, ANPAV and ANP – have warned the government that the situation would deteriorate further as a June 30 deadline for the repayment of a €900 million ($1 billion) state loan is fast approaching. The unions said they are opposed to “state euthanasia, and are ready to mobilise and open direct talks with possible industrial and financial partners who would guarantee a credible launch of the new Alitalia.”