INSUBCONTINENT EXCLUSIVE:
This strategic move, completed on January 17, 2025, positions Lufthansa as a dominant player in the lucrative Italian market and strengthens
Airlines, Swiss International Air Lines, Austrian Airlines, and Brussels Airlines
The acquisition is expected to create over 1,000 new transfer options for passengers, enhancing connectivity across Europe and to
rigorous scrutiny from European competition authorities, resulting in conditions to protect market competition
These include allowing rival carriers like EasyJet, IAG, and Air France-KLM to expand their operations in Italy and transferring some slots
at Milan Linate Airport.While Lufthansa currently holds a 41% stake, options for acquiring the remaining shares have been agreed upon with
the Italian Ministry of Economy and Finance
These can be exercised as early as 2025, potentially leading to full ownership of ITA Airways by Lufthansa in the future.This acquisition
represents a pivotal step in European airline consolidation, though the process remains gradual compared to markets like North America
For passengers, the deal promises expanded route choices, improved competition, and stronger transatlantic links, potentially driving down
