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Key Points:
- ITA Airways has received formal approval to begin its integration into Star Alliance, the world’s largest airline alliance.
- Full membership is expected by early 2026, following its incorporation into the Lufthansa Group earlier this year.
- ITA will contribute 360 daily flights, reinforcing Star Alliance’s connectivity in Italy and Southern Europe.
- Rome and Milan are expected to become even more strategic gateways within the alliance.
- Lufthansa Group will mentor ITA throughout the integration process.
The global airline alliance landscape is preparing for a major evolution as ITA Airways takes its first official step toward joining Star Alliance. On April 4, 2025, the alliance’s Chief Executive Board (CEB) approved the Italian flag carrier’s onboarding process, setting the stage for ITA’s full membership in early 2026.
This move comes shortly after ITA’s formal integration into the Lufthansa Group, making it the fifth hub carrier in the Group to join Star Alliance.
Expanding the Network: Italy Becomes Central
ITA Airways will add an estimated 360 daily flights to the Star Alliance network, significantly enhancing its footprint in Europe. The addition strengthens connectivity from Rome and Milan, which are already served by 16 existing Star Alliance members, and positions Italy as a more prominent hub for global travel.
Theo Panagiotoulias, CEO of Star Alliance, commented:
“As a gateway for Italy, [ITA’s] addition strengthens our global network, offering seamless and connected journeys to more travellers worldwide.”
The integration is expected to streamline travel for Star Alliance customers by offering more choices, easier connections, and future access to Star Alliance Gold and Silver privileges for ITA’s frequent flyers.
Lufthansa Group’s Role as Mentor
As ITA becomes part of Star Alliance, Lufthansa Group—which now includes SWISS, Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines, and Eurowings—will mentor ITA Airways throughout the integration process.
Dieter Vranckx, Chief Commercial Officer at Lufthansa Group, stated:
“ITA Airways’ future membership will provide Star Alliance customers with many new opportunities for personalised travel planning. I am confident that ITA will be an excellent addition to the portfolio.”
The move also underscores Lufthansa’s broader strategy to consolidate influence in Southern Europe, following its investment in ITA and previous alliance expansions.
One Step Closer to a Fully Connected Sky
With ITA’s onboarding, Star Alliance will grow to 26 member airlines, offering more than 18,000 daily flights to 192 countries. This solidifies its position as the most expansive global airline network, both in terms of destinations and strategic hubs.
Looking Ahead
For ITA Airways, Star Alliance membership is more than a symbolic move—it’s a strategic transformation. It provides the Italian carrier with global reach, deeper integration into international partnerships, and new growth opportunities in long-haul markets.
For Star Alliance, it fills a long-standing geographic gap in Southern Europe, enhancing the value proposition for travelers and reinforcing the alliance’s status as the leader in global connectivity.