Air Canada seeks DOT approval for indefinite codeshare deal with Italy's ITA Airways

The Canadian carrier stated that they have entered into a codeshare agreement with ITA Airways covering US airports. However, they seek DOT approval for current and future itineraries to the US, including flights operated by affiliates like Air Canada Rouge under the AC designator code.

"Air Canada wishes to implement this codeshare service as soon as possible and respectfully requests expedited approval of this Application," said Air Canada in their application. They also requested indefinite authorization as long as the codeshare agreement remains effective.

Initially, Air Canada plans to display ITA Airways’ designator code on flights from Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) to Boston Logan International Airport (BOS), Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), Fort Lauderdale Hollywood International Airport (FLL), and Orlando International Airport (MCO).

Data from Cirium’s Diio Mi airline planning tool shows that out of these four US airports, ITA Airways currently serves only Boston but operates daily departures from Rome Leonardo da Vinci Fiumicino Airport (FCO) to Toronto-Pearson and six other US destinations.

Air Canada argued that DOT’s approval aligns with public interest based on previous statements about Open Skies agreements: “Increased international codesharing and other cooperative arrangements can benefit consumers by increasing international service options and enhancing competition between carriers.”

Lufthansa Group is working towards integrating ITA Airways into its operations after acquiring a minority stake. The integration includes aligning closer with Star Alliance, which ITA should join by early 2026. Star Alliance announced that its Chief Executive Board approved ITA's integration process.

Starting July 1, customers of Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines, Lufthansa, and Swiss International Air Lines will be able to book long-haul flights operated by ITA Airways in one booking through Lufthansa Group's network.