ITA Airways has launched the first nonstop service between Rome Fiumicino Airport and Houston George Bush Intercontinental Airport, closing a longstanding gap in transatlantic connectivity between the two cities. The inaugural flight operated on May 2, 2026, using a next-generation Airbus A330-900. The new route expands the Italian flag carrier’s North American network to nine destinations.
The service will initially operate three weekly frequencies, rising to five from June 1, 2026. Houston joins ITA Airways’ existing North American network alongside New York, Boston, Miami, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Washington D.C., Chicago, and Toronto.
Strategic Route for Business and Tourism
Houston is the fourth-largest city in the United States and a global hub for the energy, aerospace, and defense industries. The route is expected to support business, tourism, and family travel between the two markets, with connections available onward across Italy and Europe via Rome Fiumicino and Milan Linate.
“Houston is a key addition for our airline, representing a further growth in our long-haul network, on which we intend to build our future development,” said Joerg Eberhart, CEO and General Manager of ITA Airways. “The new service opens up more of Italy to Houstonians and the wider Gulf Coast region, providing a direct gateway to Rome, and onward connections across Italy and Europe.”
Launch events took place in both Rome and Houston, attended by government officials, airport leaders, and company executives. Sandro Pappalardo, Chairman of ITA Airways, said the route “brings people and cultures closer together and reinforces our role as ambassador of Made in Italy worldwide.”
Tilman J. Fertitta, U.S. Ambassador to Italy and San Marino, welcomed the launch. “This is a great day for Houstonians. As a Texan and as the U.S. Ambassador to Italy, I’m thrilled by ITA Airways’ new direct route between Houston and Rome,” he said. “This connection strengthens the economic ties that drive mutual understanding and shared prosperity.”
Airport and City Leaders Back the New Connection
Marco Troncone, CEO of Aeroporti di Roma, said the route was strategic for the Italian capital’s intercontinental network. “With this new route, the number of North American airports connected to Fiumicino will rise to 22 in Summer 2026,” he said.
John Whitmire, Mayor of Houston, said the route strengthened ties between the two cities ahead of a major global event. “This first-ever nonstop flight to Rome connects two global cities known for innovation, energy and history,” he said. “It opens new doors for trade, tourism and investment, while making Houston even more accessible as we prepare to welcome the world for the FIFA World Cup.”
Jim Szczesniak, Director of Aviation for Houston Airports, said the service reflected growing demand for international connectivity. “Launching nonstop service between Houston and Rome closes a longstanding gap in global connectivity,” he said. “This route strengthens IAH’s role as a premier global gateway, connecting millions of passengers to destinations across five continents.”
Flights are available to book through ITA Airways’ website, the airline’s app, travel agencies, and airport ticket offices. The airline has also announced a new seasonal nonstop route between Rome Fiumicino and Santo Domingo for the winter 2026 to 2027 season.
