In a landmark development for global aviation, ITA Airways has officially joined the Star Alliance, becoming its 26th member and completing its integration into the world’s largest airline network. The move significantly enhances international connectivity for Italy while offering passengers a more seamless and comprehensive travel experience.
The milestone was marked with a formal induction ceremony at the Piazza di Spagna Lounge, located within Rome Fiumicino Airport. The event brought together senior leadership including ITA Airways CEO and General Manager Joerg Eberhart, Star Alliance CEO Theo Panagiotoulias, and Lufthansa Group Chief Commercial Officer Dieter Vranckx, alongside industry stakeholders and media representatives.
Seamless Integration into a Global Network
Effective April 1, 2026, ITA Airways is fully integrated into Star Alliance’s extensive global network, linking its primary hubs at Rome and Milan—notably Milan Linate Airport—with more than 1,150 destinations worldwide. These hubs are now served by 17 Star Alliance member airlines, creating stronger connectivity between Italy and key international markets.
Passengers travelling within the alliance network benefit from integrated services such as through check-in, seamless baggage transfers, reciprocal frequent flyer privileges, and access to an extensive network of airport lounges. These enhancements are designed to streamline the travel experience across multiple carriers while maintaining consistent service standards.
A Strategic Expansion for Star Alliance
Welcoming ITA Airways into the alliance, Theo Panagiotoulias described the development as a significant milestone in expanding the alliance’s European footprint and strengthening its customer offering. He emphasised that the addition not only increases network reach but also enhances the overall passenger journey through improved loyalty benefits, lounge access and digital services such as baggage tracking.
For ITA Airways, the membership represents a defining moment in its evolution. Joerg Eberhart highlighted that joining Star Alliance allows the airline to broaden its global presence while offering passengers access to a vast international network. At the same time, he underscored the airline’s commitment to bringing its distinctive Italian identity—characterised by style, warmth and service excellence—into the alliance.
Backed by Lufthansa Group Collaboration
The integration process has been supported by Lufthansa Group, which acted as a mentor throughout the transition. Over recent months, collaborative efforts between ITA Airways, Lufthansa Group airlines and Star Alliance teams have enabled a smooth and efficient onboarding.
Dieter Vranckx noted that the partnership strengthens the joint value proposition for customers, combining ITA Airways’ growing network with Lufthansa Group’s established presence. The collaboration is expected to unlock new opportunities for travellers, partners and the broader alliance ecosystem.
Strengthening Italy’s Position in Global Aviation
ITA Airways contributes more than 350 daily flights to the alliance network and serves over 16 million passengers annually. Its inclusion enhances connectivity not only within Italy but also across Europe and long-haul international routes.
With the addition of ITA Airways, Star Alliance now comprises 26 member airlines, collectively operating over 17,500 daily flights across more than 190 countries. The expansion reinforces the alliance’s position as a leader in global aviation connectivity while further integrating Italy into the world’s most comprehensive air travel network.
For travellers, the development signals a new era of convenience—where journeys to, from and within Italy are more connected, efficient and enriched by the combined strengths of one of aviation’s most powerful alliances.
