Rome, Italy – August 2025 – ITA Airways, Italy’s national carrier, has unveiled a transformative 2026–2030 Business Plan, mapping a new direction toward becoming a global aviation powerhouse. The roadmap includes aggressive fleet modernization, network expansion, and a strong focus on environmental sustainability, all in strategic collaboration with the Lufthansa Group. With Italy at the heart of Mediterranean tourism and trade, this plan aims to firmly re-establish the country’s prominence in international air travel.
Reclaiming Global Sky Routes with Strategic Growth
At the core of ITA Airways’ new strategy is an ambitious international route expansion, especially to underserved long-haul markets in North America, Latin America, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific. Anchored at its Rome Fiumicino hub, the carrier will reinforce Italy’s connectivity to emerging and established global economic centers.
Key routes under consideration for future growth include Rome to Tokyo, São Paulo, Chicago, Seoul, and Mumbai—a move aligned with rising global tourism and trade with Italy. This builds on the airline’s already growing network of over 64 destinations, including 12 intercontinental routes as of 2025.
ITA Airways CEO Antonino Turicchi stated:
“With our new plan, we’re not just aiming for growth—we’re aiming for smart, sustainable expansion that benefits Italy, our passengers, and the planet.”
Lufthansa Partnership Strengthens International Position
ITA Airways’ integration into the Lufthansa Group, pending final regulatory approval from the European Commission, is set to provide enormous operational synergies. Through this alliance, ITA will gain access to Lufthansa’s premium service models, digital booking platforms, and loyalty programs such as Miles & More.
This partnership will also empower ITA to:
- Share codes and offer seamless itineraries across Lufthansa’s global network
- Access joint procurement for cost-effective fleet renewal
- Enhance digital innovation and customer personalization
- Operate as part of Star Alliance routes in the near future
As Lufthansa seeks to fortify its Southern European footprint, ITA Airways becomes a crucial link in connecting Italy to broader global markets.
Fleet Modernization with Eco-Friendly Goals
ITA Airways is currently operating one of the youngest fleets in Europe, and the new plan pushes for complete renewal by 2030, featuring fuel-efficient aircraft like the Airbus A220, A320neo, A330neo, and A350. These next-generation planes will help reduce CO₂ emissions per passenger by up to 25%.
By 2030, ITA plans to grow its fleet to 94 aircraft, 90% of which will be new-generation, significantly advancing the airline’s climate goals under the EU Green Deal and IATA’s Fly Net Zero initiative.
ITA also announced its participation in pilot programs for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) adoption, collaborating with major fuel suppliers and European airports. The carrier will also introduce carbon offset options for all flights via its updated booking portal.
Prioritizing Service, Comfort, and Talent
Beyond its aircraft, ITA Airways aims to redefine the customer experience. The plan includes:
- Revamped cabin interiors with enhanced comfort and digital entertainment
- Expanded inflight Wi-Fi and real-time language support for international travelers
- Loyalty upgrades, integrating Lufthansa’s loyalty system to offer elite-tier perks
- Premium lounges at Rome Fiumicino and Milan Linate
Passenger service is further enhanced by investing in human capital. ITA plans to grow its workforce to over 6,000 skilled professionals by 2030, focusing on cabin crew, engineers, and digital innovation teams. Recruitment and training programs will prioritize diversity, multilingualism, and tech adaptability.
Sustainability Anchored at the Core
Sustainability is not a side goal—it’s central to ITA Airways’ identity. The carrier is targeting net-zero emissions by 2050, with interim goals to cut emissions by 30% by 2030 (vs 2019 levels). Key green initiatives include:
- Use of electric ground vehicles at Italian airports
- Integration of AI-powered flight planning tools to reduce fuel burn
- Elimination of single-use plastics onboard by 2026
- Partnering with local Italian producers for onboard catering to reduce logistics emissions
CEO Turicchi emphasized, “Sustainability is not just a regulatory obligation. It’s our legacy to future generations and the travelers of tomorrow.”
Boosting Italy’s Aviation and Tourism Competitiveness
Italy welcomed over 65 million international tourists in 2024, contributing more than 13% to its GDP. By increasing route access and improving service quality, ITA Airways is expected to play a pivotal role in boosting Italy’s tourism economy, especially ahead of events like the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics.
Rome’s Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (FCO) is set to serve as the primary hub, which recently won Skytrax’s “Best Airport in Europe” award. ITA Airways’ commitment to building Rome into a key southern European hub aligns with the city’s strategic development plans.
Final Word: ITA Airways Rising to the Challenge
ITA Airways’ 2026–2030 business roadmap is a bold blueprint combining economic ambition, environmental responsibility, and global vision. With the right investment in technology, fleet, people, and strategic partnerships, the airline is positioning itself not just as a carrier of Italy—but as a carrier of the future.
Whether you’re traveling for leisure to the Amalfi Coast, business in Milan, or transiting through Rome to Asia or the Americas, ITA Airways is crafting an experience that promises more connectivity, less impact, and greater comfort.
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