It's Official: ITA Airways Takes Off with Lufthansa Group

The new Board of Directors of ITA Airways convened today, appointed by the Ordinary Shareholders' Meeting of ITA Airways held on January 15 implementing the agreements entered into in June 2023 and the new corporate governance.

The Board of Directors, confirming the directives provided by the Shareholders' Meeting, has appointed Sandro Pappalardo as Chairman and Joerg Eberhart as Chief Executive Officer.

Following the acquisition by Deutsche Lufthansa AG (“Lufthansa”) of a 41% stake in ITA Airways share capital, the entry of the Italian airline into the Lufthansa Group, leader in European aviation, has officially been marked.

"Today marks a significant milestone for ITA Airways and for Italy," said Sandro Pappalardo, Chairman of ITA Airways. – A new chapter begins for the Company which, in just three years since its launch as a start-up, has achieved remarkable results, earning the trust and investment of a major industrial partner like Lufthansa.

With the backing of the new Board of Directors, to whom I extend my best wishes, and the Company’s Management, we will continue ITA Airways' journey of growth, strengthened by the full support of the Lufthansa Group. Our goal is to continue representing Italy in the world and to make our passengers prouder than ever to fly with us".

"We are excited about the result achieved, which marks a historic moment for ITA Airways and for the entire air transport sector in Europe – said Joerg Eberhart, CEO of ITA Airways – The Company is now stronger, and, thanks to the excellent results achieved so far, ready to face new challenges in a very competitive market, especially domestically.

The Lufthansa Group, alongside ITA Airways, is more robust than ever, and I am confident that, thanks to synergies with the other carriers in the group, we will be able to seize important growth opportunities, relying on one of the youngest and most efficient fleets in Europe and on highly skilled professionals."

Italy confirms its role as a strategically important market, representing the fourth-largest air traffic market in Europe. The collaboration with the Lufthansa Group will enable ITA Airways to expand its global presence, leveraging the Group's international leadership while simultaneously enhancing the Fiumicino hub, a symbol of Italian airport excellence and continuous development.

The integration will ensure better connectivity between Italy, Europe, and the rest of the world, offering a premium service that combines Lufthansa’s high global standards with ITA Airways’ expertise and Made in Italy style.

This alliance strengthens the Group’s position as the fourth-largest airline operator globally, creating significant operational and commercial synergies, while also supporting a shared commitment to reducing CO2 emissions.