Lufthansa acquires minority stake in Italy's ITA Airways

Carsten Spohr, CEO of Deutsche Lufthansa AG, expressed his enthusiasm: “We are proud to finally welcome ITA Airways to the Lufthansa Group... With our investment, we will now strengthen the Italian and European aviation market and the position of the Lufthansa Group as number one in Europe.”

Italy is set to become another "home market" for Lufthansa. The country already ranks as its second most important international market after the USA. Rome Fiumicino Airport will serve as a new hub for Lufthansa, while Milan-Linate will play a significant role due to its strategic location in northern Italy.

ITA Airways will maintain its brand identity while integrating into the larger group structure. Cooperation agreements are expected soon; frequent flyers from both airlines will benefit from shared loyalty programs like Miles & More.

Joerg Eberhart has been appointed CEO of ITA Airways and joins its Board of Directors based in Rome. Lorenza Maggio takes on the role of Chief Strategy and Integration Officer (CSIO), overseeing strategic development and integration efforts with Lufthansa. Michael Trestl assumes responsibility for integrating ITA Airways into Lufthansa as "ITA Implementation Officer."

Carsten Spohr commented on these appointments: “I am delighted that we can appoint two managers from our own ranks... With their extensive experience and expertise, they will continue ITA Airways' successful course.”

Further details about this acquisition will be shared at a press conference scheduled for February 3, 2025, in Rome.