Lufthansa Increases Stake in ITA Airways to 90%

Lufthansa Group Acquires 90% Stake in ITA Airways

At the beginning of 2025, Lufthansa Group purchased a 41% stake in ITA Airways, Italy's national airline (formerly Alitalia). Now, Lufthansa has decided to increase its ownership to 90% by exercising an option to buy an additional 49% stake. This deal is expected to be finalized by June 2026 for a pre-negotiated price of 325 million euros.

Implementation Process and Timeline

The transaction will require approval from regulatory authorities, mainly the European Commission and the U.S. Department of Justice, and is anticipated to be completed in the first quarter of 2027. At that time, ITA Airways will be fully integrated into the Lufthansa Group, with the Italian government retaining only a 10% stake.

Insights from CEO Carsten Spohr

Carsten Spohr, CEO of Lufthansa Group, emphasized that after acquiring the 41% stake, the company committed to swiftly integrating ITA Airways into its system. All customer interfaces have been integrated, except for transatlantic flights, where regulatory approval for the merger is still under review.

Quick Integration Capabilities

Passengers can now experience ITA Airways as part of the Lufthansa Group, with a unified booking and sales system, alongside the Miles and More loyalty program, and access to a global network of premium lounges.

Success in Cargo Operations

Lufthansa Cargo has also actively marketed ITA Airways' cargo capabilities, equivalent to the capacity of three Boeing 777 freighters. This has contributed to Lufthansa Group's decision to increase its stake in ITA Airways.

Strategic Significance of the Deal

When the deal between Lufthansa Group and ITA Airways was announced, the initial goal was for Lufthansa to hold a significant stake in ITA Airways. Currently, the Star Alliance and Miles & More loyalty program have been implemented, indicating that ITA Airways is genuinely functioning as a member airline of Lufthansa.

Anticipating Future Changes

The next step is to integrate ITA Airways into Lufthansa Group's joint ventures, which also requires regulatory approval and may necessitate some concessions. It will be interesting to observe the reactions from competing airlines as this project unfolds.

Useful Information for Vietnamese Travelers

Lufthansa is one of the largest airlines in Europe, offering numerous connecting flights from Vietnam to Europe via Frankfurt and Munich. If you're planning a trip to Europe, consider the connections Lufthansa provides. Keep in mind that travelers from Vietnam may need a Schengen visa to enter countries in the region.

Ticket prices from Vietnam to Europe with Lufthansa typically range from 15 million to 25 million VND, depending on the time and destination. It's advisable to book early and keep an eye on promotional offers for the best prices.

Joining Lufthansa's Miles & More loyalty program can provide you with numerous benefits for earning points and redeeming rewards on future flights.

In summary, Lufthansa's increase in ownership of ITA Airways to 90% is a significant strategic move, set to be completed by 2026, which promises to benefit both the airline and its passengers.

Article referenced and edited from: One Mile at a Time