ITA Airways Set to Join Star Alliance in Early 2026, Boosting Global Connectivity and European Network
(IN SHORT) ITA Airways has been approved by the Star Alliance Chief Executive Board to start its integration into the global airline alliance, with an official membership expected in early 2026. This decision comes after ITA Airways’ recent induction into the Lufthansa Group and will see the carrier contribute 360 daily flights to the Alliance, notably enhancing the network’s presence in Europe from hubs like Rome and Milan. Star Alliance CEO Theo Panagiotoulias highlighted the significant impact of ITA Airways joining the Alliance, emphasizing improved global connectivity and seamless travel. ITA Airways CEO Joerg Eberhart expressed enthusiasm for showcasing the best of Italian excellence within the Alliance. Lufthansa Group is mentoring the integration process, with Chief Commercial Officer Dieter Vranckx affirming that ITA Airways’ inclusion will provide new opportunities for personalized travel planning, further expanding Star Alliance’s reach to 26 member airlines and over 18,000 daily flights connecting 192 countries.
(PRESS RELEASE) SINGAPORE/ROME, 2025-Apr-2 — /Travel PR News/ — ITA Airways has received the green light from the Star Alliance Chief Executive Board (CEB) to begin its integration into the world’s largest airline alliance, marking a major milestone following its recent induction into the Lufthansa Group. With the integration process now set to accelerate, ITA Airways is poised to officially join Star Alliance as a full member in early 2026. This strategic entry will add 360 daily flights to the Alliance network, further solidifying its presence in Europe—particularly from its key hubs in Rome and Milan, which are already served by 16 Star Alliance members.
Star Alliance CEO Theo Panagiotoulias celebrated the decision, stating, “The approval from our Chief Executive Board reflects our strong confidence in ITA Airways. As Italy’s gateway, their inclusion will enhance our global connectivity, enabling seamless travel for millions of passengers worldwide.” Joerg Eberhart, CEO and General Manager of ITA Airways, echoed this enthusiasm: “We are excited to bring the excellence of Made in Italy to Star Alliance, a move that marks a significant step in our growth and will offer our customers unparalleled access to the benefits of the world’s largest airline network.”
Lufthansa Group, which has welcomed ITA Airways into its fold earlier this year, is playing a mentoring role to ensure a smooth integration process. Dieter Vranckx, Chief Commercial Officer of the Lufthansa Group, added, “ITA Airways will be the fifth hub airline from our group to join Star Alliance. Their future membership will open up new opportunities for personalized travel planning and further strengthen the Alliance’s network.”
Once ITA Airways completes its induction, Star Alliance will grow to 26 member airlines, operating over 18,000 daily flights that connect 192 countries around the globe.
Star Alliance Press Office
Tel: +65 8729 6691
Email: mediarelations@staralliance.com
ITA Airways press information:
Pietro Caldaroni, Chief Communication Officer
Mail: media@ita-airways.com
