Lufthansa Group’s acquisition of a 41% stake in ITA Airways has been officially approved, marking a pivotal moment for European aviation. This move has implications not just for Lufthansa and ITA Airways but also for all Star Alliance members, in a similar way that the SAS acquisition did for SkyTeam. In this post, we’ll look into some of the possible advantages!

1. Enhanced Network Connectivity

With ITA Airways under its wing, Lufthansa expands its network to include a wider range of Italian cities and destinations beyond. This means more options and flexibility for travelers connecting through Italy or exploring the country itself. The acquisition could also lead to increased (or adjusted) flight frequencies between existing destinations. When it comes to connections and transfers, those usually were rocky within Italy. Lufthansa has now a chance to streamline those and improve coordination between Lufthansa and ITA Airways flights

2. Improved Loyalty Programs

ITA Airways’ loyalty program, Volare, is expected to be integrated into Lufthansa’s Miles & More program. This means Star Alliance members can earn and redeem miles on ITA Airways flights, increasing opportunities to accumulate miles and access rewards. Star Alliance Gold members could gain access to ITA Airways lounges, further enhancing the travel experience with comfortable waiting areas and amenities.

3. Competitive Pricing and Services

Increased competition within the Italian market could lead to more competitive fares and special offers for travelers. Lufthansa’s influence could lead to improvements in ITA Airways’ onboard services, including catering, entertainment, and overall passenger experience.

As of today, ITA has more interesting offers and better prices to deep South America such as Argentina and Brazil, compared to the rates offered by Lufthansa.

4. Stronger Star Alliance Presence in Italy

The acquisition positions Lufthansa Group as a dominant player in the Italian aviation market, strengthening Star Alliance’s foothold against competitors. Italy becomes an even more attractive gateway for Star Alliance travelers flying to other European destinations or beyond, thanks to improved connectivity and services.

5. Potential for Future Growth

ITA Airways’ hub in Rome could become a strategic hub for Lufthansa and the Star Alliance network, facilitating further expansion and connections to other regions. Although ITA’s fleet is already modern and driving innovation, Lufthansa’s investment could bring in more technology and improvements.

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