Lufthansa Group has officially completed its €325 million acquisition of a 41% stake in ITA Airways, marking a significant milestone for both companies. The deal was finalised on January 17, 2025, following approval from the European Commission and the Italian Ministry of Economy and Finance. ITA Airways now becomes the fifth airline within the Lufthansa Group’s expansive network.
Carsten Spohr, CEO of Deutsche Lufthansa AG, emphasized the strategic importance of the acquisition:
“With our investment, we will now strengthen the Italian and European aviation market and solidify the Lufthansa Group’s position as the number one in Europe. Joint passengers worldwide will benefit from improved offers and optimized connections as early as this upcoming summer flight schedule.”
The transaction, initially announced in May 2023, faced delays due to a year-long investigation by the European Commission, which imposed conditions to address concerns over anti-competitive behavior. These conditions require Lufthansa and ITA Airways to allow competitors access to key routes between Italy and North America, as well as to central European hubs and slots at Milan’s Linate Airport.
Integration into Lufthansa Group
With the acquisition finalised, Lufthansa is preparing to fully integrate ITA Airways into its ecosystem. Frequent flyers will soon benefit from enhanced loyalty program options. ITA Airways’ Volare members and Lufthansa’s Miles & More participants will be able to earn and redeem points across both airlines. Future plans include joint codeshare agreements, lounge access, and ITA Airways joining the Star Alliance.
The initial 41% stake acquisition lays the groundwork for Lufthansa to gain full control of ITA Airways by 2033, with a total investment of €829 million. While the Italian Treasury retains the remaining 59% stake for now, the partnership aims to revitalise ITA Airways and strengthen Italy’s position within the European aviation landscape.
Economic and Operational Impact
ITA Airways transported approximately 10 million passengers in 2024, with Lufthansa projecting significant growth under its leadership. The move also aligns with Lufthansa’s broader strategy of enhancing connectivity and improving offerings for long-haul routes, particularly between Europe, North America, and Asia.
This acquisition signals a new chapter for ITA Airways, which was previously known as Alitalia, and for the Lufthansa Group as it continues to expand its influence across Europe. Passengers can expect improved services, expanded route options, and seamless travel experiences starting with the summer 2025 flight schedule.
