A baby has been born on board an ITA Airways flight from Dakar to Rome Fiumicino, becoming the first child ever delivered on an aircraft operated by the Italian carrier.
The birth took place on flight AZ855 approximately one hour after takeoff on the night of 29 April 2026. The mother, who was in her seventh month of pregnancy, went into labour unexpectedly during the journey.
The crew provided immediate assistance and were supported by two passengers on board, a doctor and a nurse, who helped deliver the baby. ITA Airways said the crew demonstrated great professionalism throughout the incident.
Both the mother and the newborn are reported to be in good health. The airline said the baby boy is the first child ever born on one of its aircraft and wished him a wonderful life filled with joy.
ITA Airways formally thanked the doctor and nurse who stepped in to assist during the flight. The airline did not release further details about the mother or the circumstances that led to the early labour.
ITA Airways launched operations in October 2021 as the successor to Alitalia and operates scheduled services across Europe, the Americas, Africa, and Asia from its base at Rome Fiumicino Airport.
