ITA Airways Set to Start Integration into Star Alliance

ITA Airways Joins Star Alliance

ITA Airways has been granted official approval to initiate its integration into Star Alliance, thanks to a decision from the Star Alliance Chief Executive Board (CEB). This development, building on its recent incorporation into the Lufthansa Group, sets the stage for its eagerly awaited entry into the largest airline alliance worldwide. The onboarding process will now progress rapidly.

Celebrating the milestone, Star Alliance Chief Executive Officer Theo Panagiotoulias stated: "In early 2026, ITA Airways is expected to officially join the Star Alliance network as a full member. The decision by our Chief Executive Board underscores the strong confidence our members have in ITA Airways. As a gateway for Italy, its addition strengthens our global network, offering seamless and connected journeys to more travellers worldwide."

Joerg Eberhart, CEO and General Manager of ITA Airways, said: "We are excited to join the Star Alliance network and to bring the excellence of Made in Italy into the alliance, further enhancing its global reach. This is a significant milestone in ITA Airways' growth, and we look forward to offering our customers the future privileges of the world's largest airline network."

ITA Airways plans to introduce 360 daily flights to the Alliance network, enhancing its presence in Europe. The majority of this expansion will originate from its main cities, particularly Rome and Milan, which already have 16 Star Alliance member services combined. Utilizing their established ties within the Alliance, Lufthansa Group is guiding ITA Airways as it integrates into Star Alliance.

"I am proud that ITA Airways will become the fifth hub airline of the Lufthansa Group to join Star Alliance. As the mentor of the membership process, we will do our utmost to ensure a smooth and swift integration. ITA Airways' future membership will provide Star Alliance customers with many new opportunities for personalised travel planning. I am confident that ITA Airways will be an excellent addition to the Star Alliance portfolio," said Dieter Vranckx, Chief Commercial Officer of the Lufthansa Group.

Once induction is finalized, the Star Alliance network will expand to 26 member airlines, providing more than 18,000 daily flights to 192 countries.