The Lufthansa Group has officially started integrating Italy’s ITA Airways into its network, marking a significant step in the consolidation of Europe’s aviation landscape. This follows the completion of Lufthansa’s purchase of a 41% stake in ITA Airways, a deal valued at 325 million euros. ITA’s entry into the Lufthansa Group now places it alongside other prominent carriers such as Lufthansa, Austrian Airlines, Swiss International Air Lines, and Brussels Airlines, forming a more cohesive European airline network.
As part of this integration, passengers will notice a number of exciting changes, particularly those loyal to either airline. Starting immediately, members of Lufthansa’s Miles & More program will now be able to earn and redeem miles when flying with ITA Airways. Likewise, ITA’s Volare members will enjoy similar benefits when flying with Lufthansa Group airlines, further enhancing the value for frequent flyers on both sides.
This shift is just the beginning. U.S. passengers, in particular, will feel the most immediate changes starting March 30. That’s when Lufthansa Group airlines will commence codesharing on more than 100 flights with ITA. The goal is to expand this codeshare agreement, eventually covering over 250 destinations, including domestic Italian routes to popular spots like Sicily, Sardinia, Calabria, and Puglia. Codeshare bookings will become available in all Lufthansa Group global sales channels beginning February 25, allowing travelers to seamlessly plan and book flights across both airlines.
In addition to expanded flight options, passengers will also benefit from shared lounge access starting on March 30. ITA Airways passengers will be welcomed into the Lufthansa Group’s premium lounges, and vice versa. This marks a significant enhancement for travelers looking for a more comfortable pre-flight experience. ITA will also be moving into Lufthansa’s terminals at Frankfurt and Munich airports, further streamlining the travel experience for passengers switching between the two airlines.
Looking ahead, ITA Airways has its sights set on joining the prestigious Star Alliance in the coming year. This membership will allow ITA to align more closely with Lufthansa Group carriers, as well as other members of the Star Alliance network, offering even more flight options and benefits for passengers. However, as ITA prepares for this transition, the airline is also working on exiting the SkyTeam alliance, marking a shift in its international partnerships.
This integration is part of Lufthansa Group’s broader strategy to strengthen its position in the European market, offering travelers more flexibility, expanded networks, and enhanced loyalty benefits. With ITA Airways now fully aligned with Lufthansa and its network of partners, the future looks promising for travelers seeking smoother, more convenient air travel options in Europe and beyond.
As this integration unfolds, aviation enthusiasts and frequent travelers alike can look forward to a more connected and dynamic travel experience across Europe and the world, with ITA Airways playing a key role in shaping the Lufthansa Group’s next chapter.
