ITA Airways: A New Dawn in European Aviation

The skies of Europe are about to get a lot more crowded. ITA Airways, the Italian national carrier, has received official approval to begin its integration into Star Alliance, the world’s largest airline alliance. This move, which follows a decision by the Star Alliance Chief Executive Board, is set to reshape the competitive landscape of European aviation. The integration, expected to be completed by early 2026, will see ITA Airways join a network of 26 member airlines, offering more than 18,000 daily flights across 192 countries. This is a significant milestone for ITA Airways, which was founded in 2021 after the dissolution of Alitalia, and marks a new chapter in its growth strategy.

The integration into Star Alliance is not just a strategic move for ITA Airways; it is a testament to the airline’s resilience and ambition. Founded in the wake of Alitalia’s collapse, ITA Airways has quickly established itself as a key player in the European aviation market. The airline’s decision to join Star Alliance, following its integration with the Lufthansa Group, is a bold step that underscores its commitment to growth and innovation.

The integration process, which began in February 2025, will see ITA Airways contribute 360 daily flights to the alliance network, with the biggest growth coming from its home cities, Rome and Milan. These cities are already connected by 16 Star Alliance members, which will enhance connectivity and convenience for passengers. The expanded network will allow ITA Airways to offer more destinations and better connections, attracting more passengers and potentially increasing revenue.

The integration into Star Alliance is expected to significantly enhance ITA Airways’ market share and competitive position within the European aviation industry. Currently, ITA Airways has a relatively small market share compared to low-cost carriers like Ryanair. According to Cirium schedules data for May, Ryanair has a 33% share of seat capacity on Italian routes versus the 9% of ITA Airways. This gap is even more pronounced when measured in Available Seat Kilometers (ASKs), reflecting ITA’s long-haul network, with Ryanair holding a 23% share compared to ITA Airways' 9%.



The integration into Star Alliance will provide ITA Airways with access to a global network of 26 member airlines, offering more than 18,000 daily flights across 192 countries. This expanded network will allow ITA Airways to offer its customers the future privileges of the world’s largest airline network, including easier connections and cross-company recognition for frequent flyers. ITA Airways plans to introduce 360 daily flights to the alliance network, with the biggest growth coming from its home cities, especially Rome and Milan, which are already connected by 16 Star Alliance members.

Lufthansa Group's involvement as a mentor in the onboarding process is expected to facilitate a smooth transition for ITA Airways. Dieter Vranckx, Lufthansa Group CCO, stated, "We will do our utmost to ensure a smooth and swift integration." This support will help ITA Airways leverage its legacy within the alliance, making the "early 2026" goal for full membership more achievable.

The integration will also allow ITA Airways to benefit from Lufthansa's extensive network and resources, further strengthening its position in the European aviation market. Carsten Spohr, Lufthansa Group CEO, highlighted the importance of regulatory approval for the acquisition, stating, "With such a low market share of ITA, which is the probably lowest of all national carriers in Europe, and such a strong market share of the strongest low-cost airline in Europe, I’m sure they will appreciate now there is fair competition again which the consumers to and from Italy will take advantage of."

In summary, ITA Airways' integration into Star Alliance, supported by Lufthansa Group, is expected to significantly enhance its market share and competitive position within the European aviation industry. This move will provide ITA Airways with access to a global network, easier connections, and cross-company recognition for frequent flyers, helping it to better compete with low-cost carriers like Ryanair. The integration into Star Alliance is a strategic move that underscores ITA Airways’ commitment to growth and innovation, and marks a new chapter in its growth strategy.