Lufthansa joins Ita Airways: a historic step for European aviation

The entry of Lufthansa into Ita Airways, the airline born from the bankruptcy of Alitalia and owned by the Italian state, has been considered a "success" by Italy's Minister of Economy, Giancarlo Giorgetti. After intense negotiations that lasted for almost a year, the European Commission finally gave its approval for the German airline to participate in the capital of Ita Airways, which has been met with enthusiasm and celebration in Italy, Germany, and Europe in general. In a joint press conference in Rome, Giorgetti, along with Ita Airways President Antonino Turicchi, and Lufthansa CEO Carsten Spohr, highlighted the importance of this operation and the positive impact it will have on the aviation sector. According to Giorgetti, this partnership represents the resolution of a historical issue that has been a challenge for the Italian government and the country as a whole. The Minister of Economy emphasized that Lufthansa's entry into Ita Airways will prevent Italians from having to continue contributing billions to cover the airline's losses. Additionally, it is expected that this operation will provide a long-term perspective for current and former Alitalia employees, allowing for potential rehiring based on Ita Airways' development. Carsten Spohr expressed his satisfaction with the operation and warmly welcomed Ita Airways into the Lufthansa Group. This strategic partnership between the two airlines will not only strengthen the aviation market in Italy but also solidify Rome as an important hub for flights to America, Africa, and Asia. The European Commission, which had previously opened an investigation to assess the potential effects of Lufthansa's acquisition of Ita Airways on air competition, announced that the operation will only be completed once a series of commitments are met, such as the transfer of assets and slots to promote competition on short and long-haul routes. The partnership between Lufthansa and Ita Airways was finalized in May, when the German airline committed to acquiring 41% of the Italian company's capital for 325 million euros. This operation marks a milestone in the history of aviation in Europe, especially for Italy, which finally manages to detach itself from the debt and financial difficulties that Alitalia had been facing. The Association of Users and Consumers' Rights of Italy celebrated the positive evolution represented by the transformation of Alitalia into Ita Airways, emphasizing the need to put an end to decades of losses and dependence on public funds. With this new alliance, Ita Airways is expected to redefine its position in the market and offer a competitive and sustainable proposal for passengers.