Italian carrier reports positive operating performance during the summer quarter, while nine-month revenue exceeds €2.5 billion and EBIT rises 65% year-on-year.
ITA Airways reported a 6% year-on-year increase in third-quarter revenue to €995 million, supported by a positive operating performance during the peak summer travel season. The Italian carrier also recorded improved results for the first nine months of 2026, despite geopolitical uncertainty and higher aviation fuel costs.
For the three months ended September 30, 2026, the airline posted an operating profit (EBIT) of €94 million, broadly in line with the corresponding period last year. Revenue growth reflected the stronger performance of the summer quarter, one of the most important periods for passenger demand across the aviation industry.
For the January–September period, ITA Airways generated revenue of more than €2.5 billion, an increase of 4% compared with the same period in 2025. EBIT reached €98 million, representing a 65% year-on-year improvement.
Fuel hedging helps contain cost pressures
The results were achieved against a backdrop of persistent geopolitical tensions and rising jet fuel prices, which continued to put pressure on airline operating costs. ITA Airways said it had mitigated some of the impact through fuel-hedging arrangements covering more than 80% of its requirements for 2026.
The airline also highlighted the effect of euro-US dollar exchange-rate movements on its net financial result. The weakening of the euro has affected the accounting valuation of foreign-currency-denominated receivables and payables, primarily those denominated in US dollars, when translated at period-end exchange rates.
ITA Airways characterised these currency-related effects as non-operating items, distinct from the performance of its core business. The company emphasised that its operating activity remained profitable in both the third quarter and the first nine months of the year.
Lufthansa Group synergies remain a priority
Commenting on the performance, Joerg Eberhart, CEO and General Manager of ITA Airways, said the results reflected a positive summer season despite the difficult geopolitical environment.
He said the airline would continue focusing on cost discipline, service quality and the gradual development of synergies with the Lufthansa Group as it works to strengthen its business.
Eberhart added that the latest results provided a foundation for future growth, while emphasising that sustained efforts and consistency would be necessary to achieve long-term profitability.
The results underline ITA Airways’ continued focus on improving its operating performance as it develops its position within the Lufthansa Group. With fuel costs, currency movements and geopolitical conditions remaining important variables for the aviation sector, the carrier’s ability to sustain revenue growth while controlling costs will be central to its financial performance in the coming quarters.
