Green Light for Lufthansa and Italian Airline Merger
The European Commission has formally approved the acquisition of ITA Airways by Germany’s Lufthansa, paving the way for the coming together of the budget carrier and the German airline giant.
Speaking about the approval, Lufthansa commented that “The authorization from the European Commission represents an important milestone on the path towards the successful acquisition.”
The completion of the dealings is expected sometime during the first part of 2025.
Lufthansa and Italy’s Finance Ministry, which holds a remaining stake in ITA Airways, are ready to proceed with closing the €829 million deal.
This announcement follows confirmation from the EC that all necessary competition concerns had been addressed.
“After MPS we also see the finish line for Ita,” reported to local new sources by Minister of Economy and Finance, Giancarlo Giorgetti. He relayed that
“We are satisfied with this new stage, now we have to go the last mile.”
The acquisition will see the German airline take control of ITA Airways, further solidifying Lufthansa’s footprint in the European aviation market.
For its part, ITA Airways “is healthy, and we are ready for the wedding with Lufthansa because Lufthansa has strong partner,” cited ITA president, Alfredo Altavilla, commentating to news sources
## A Three-Pronged Compromise Ensures Approval
To secure approvals from European regulators, Lufthansa agreed to a series of compromises to ensure fair competition.
Under these agreements, Lufthansa committed to open up several key routes currently dominated by the airline group. Specifically, Lufthansa and Italy’s Finance Ministry stipulated commitments addressed by the European Commission.
These commitments involved freeing up resources to bolster competition on vital routes between Rome and MIlan and other important European hubs.
Lufthansa agreed to facilitate access to these routes, further allowing rival airlines increased chance to compete, notably on short-haul routes this is a win by EasyJet who the Mef will partner with.
Secondly for nate-hauler connections to gain ground further agreements involving Lufthansa carrying IAG airport slots
.
Lufthansa further committed to ensure competition for long-haul routes
These concessions directed at keeping competitionギリシャース
The move reflects a larger trend of consolidation in the European airline industry. Airlines worldwide are looking for arrangements like this one, Lappus and orchid. lفاعil
As the travel industry recovers
What are the key implications of Lufthansa’s acquisition of ITA Airways for the European airline market?
## Taking Flight: Lufthansa’s Acquisition of ITA Airways Takes Off
Today we delve into the exciting world of aviation with the news that Lufthansa’s acquisition of Italy’s ITA Airways has been given the green light by the European Commission. To help us understand the significance of this deal, we’re joined by Alex Reed, an aviation industry analyst. Welcome to the show!
**Host:** So, Alex Reed, this merger has been in the works for some time. Can you walk us through why this is such a big deal for both airlines?
**Alex Reed:** Absolutely. This acquisition signifies a major shift in the European airline landscape. Lufthansa, already a powerhouse in the industry, is expanding its reach by incorporating ITA Airways, Italy’s flag carrier. This brings together a budget carrier with a strong network in Italy with a global giant giving Lufthansa a stronger foothold in the Southern European market. [[1](https://onemileatatime.com/news/lufthansa-ita-airways/)]
**Host:** Lufthansa notably acquired a 41% stake in ITA Airways back in 2024 with the option to purchase the remaining shares later. When can we expect the full integration to be complete?
**Alex Reed:** We’re looking at early 2025 for the deal to be fully finalized and for Lufthansa to take full control of ITA Airways. This timeline underscores their commitment to ensuring a smooth transition and addressing any regulatory concerns.
**Host:** The European Commission, as you mentioned, has played a key role in approving this deal. What were their main concerns, and how were they addressed?
**Alex Reed:** Concerns primarily revolved around competition within the European airline market. The EC wanted to ensure that this merger wouldn’t create monopolies or negatively impact consumers. Lufthansa and ITA Airways, in collaboration with the Italian government, worked closely with the EC to address these concerns, likely guaranteeing specific routes remain competitive and offering concessions to ensure a level playing field.
**Host:** Thank you, Alex Reed, for providing your expert insight. This acquisition is certainly set to reshape air travel in Europe, and time will tell what long-term impact it will have.
