Deutsche Lufthansa has announced it will acquire an additional 49% stake in ITA Airways for €325 million, bringing its total shareholding in the Italian carrier to 90%. The Italian Ministry of Economy and Finance will retain the remaining 10%.
Completion of the transaction is expected in the first quarter of 2027, subject to regulatory approval from the European Commission and the US Department of Justice.
ITA Airways said the deal marks a significant milestone in its development and positions the airline for a new phase of growth within the Lufthansa Group. The carrier will continue to operate under its own brand and maintain its Italian identity.
Italy is described as a strategic market for the Lufthansa Group, ranking as the third-largest economy in the European Union and the group’s largest catchment area outside the United States and its home markets.
The deal deepens an integration process already underway, with ITA Airways set to become the Lufthansa Group’s fifth network airline alongside Swiss, Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines and Eurowings.
ITA Airways said the closer alignment with the group will allow it to develop further commercial and industrial synergies while preserving its role as Italy’s reference carrier, supporting tourism, trade and international mobility.
“This new phase represents a step of major industrial and strategic significance for ITA Airways,” said Joerg Eberhart, Chief Executive Officer and General Manager of ITA Airways. “Full integration into the Lufthansa Group will allow us to compete more strongly in international markets, while continuing to bring to the world the value of Italy, its connectivity and its capacity for innovation.”
Lufthansa first acquired a 41% stake in ITA Airways in 2024, with an option to increase its holding. The exercise of that option confirms the group’s long-term commitment to expanding its presence in the Italian market.
ITA Airways was established in 2021 as the successor to the former flag carrier Alitalia, which ceased operations after decades of financial difficulties. The airline has since repositioned itself as a leaner, quality-focused carrier with a growing international network.
