ITA Airways has officially joined Star Alliance, becoming the alliance’s 26th member and expanding its global network reach, the airline group said.
From April 1, the Italian flag carrier is fully integrated into the alliance’s network, linking its Rome Fiumicino hub and Milan Linate airport with more than 1,150 destinations worldwide served by Star Alliance members. The addition brings over 350 daily flights into the network and strengthens connectivity across Italy, Europe and international markets.
Theo Panagiotoulias, chief executive of Star Alliance, said the move would “expand our network to and from Italy” and enhance the customer experience through “more comprehensive loyalty benefits” and access to the alliance’s global lounge network.
Passengers travelling across the alliance will benefit from through check-in, reciprocal frequent flyer recognition and access to Star Alliance lounges, including ITA Airways lounges in Rome, Milan and Catania for eligible customers.
Joerg Eberhart, chief executive and general manager of ITA Airways, said joining the alliance was a “historic milestone” that would significantly expand the airline’s international reach and provide passengers with “access to over 1,150 destinations worldwide” and more seamless connections.
The integration was supported by Lufthansa Group, which mentored the process. Dieter Vranckx, chief commercial officer of Lufthansa Group, said the membership would “expand options for travellers across Europe and the world” and strengthen the joint offering between ITA Airways and Lufthansa Group.
ITA Airways carries more than 16m passengers annually and has a strong domestic and regional network, enhancing Star Alliance’s presence in Southern Europe.
The airline is 59% owned by Italy’s Ministry of Economy and Finance and 41% by Deutsche Lufthansa AG, operating passenger and cargo services connecting Italy with international and domestic markets.