ITA Airways is set to join Star Alliance. The airline has received approval from the Star Alliance Chief Executive Board (CEB) to begin the integration process. This announcement follows ITA Airways’ earlier induction into the Lufthansa Group. The onboarding process is now moving forward, paving the way for ITA Airways to become a full member of the world’s largest airline alliance.
“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,” said Joerg Eberhart, CEO and General Manager of ITA Airways. “This is an important moment in ITA Airways’ growth, and we look forward to offering our customers the future privileges of the world’s largest airline network.”
ITA Airways is the main Italian airline. The Italian Ministry of Economy and Finance owns 59% of the company, and Deutsche Lufthansa AG owns 41%. ITA Airways provides both passenger and cargo air transport services, connecting Italy to destinations worldwide and supporting tourism and trade. The airline also provides domestic flights within Italy.
A Stronger Network
ITA Airways’ membership will expand the Star Alliance network. The airline will add 360 daily flights to the Alliance network, strengthening the Alliance’s presence in Europe. Cities like Rome and Milan, ITA Airways’ home cities, will see the biggest increase in flights. These cities are currently served by 16 Star Alliance members.
“In early 2026, ITA Airways is expected to officially join the Star Alliance network as a full member,” said Star Alliance Chief Executive Officer Theo Panagiotoulias. “The decision by our Chief Executive Board shows the strong confidence our members have in ITA Airways. As a gateway for Italy, its addition strengthens our global network, offering convenient journeys to more travelers worldwide.”
Lufthansa Group’s Support
Lufthansa Group is playing a supporting role in ITA Airways’ integration 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 personalized 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 ITA Airways completes its induction, the Star Alliance network will grow. The alliance will include 26 member airlines, offering over 18,000 daily flights connecting 192 countries.
