Star Alliance has officially welcomed ITA Airways as its newest member, marking the completion of the Italian flag carrier's integration into the world's largest airline alliance. This significant development was announced on March 31, 2026, during a formal ceremony held at the Piazza di Spagna Lounge in Rome Fiumicino Airport Terminal 3.
Historic Milestone for Italian Aviation
The ceremony was presided over by ITA Airways Chief Executive Officer and General Manager Joerg Eberhart, Star Alliance Chief Executive Officer Theo Panagiotoulias, and Lufthansa Group Chief Commercial Officer Dieter Vranckx, with media representatives and institutional guests in attendance. This event represents a defining moment in ITA Airways' growth trajectory and strategic positioning within the global aviation landscape.
Enhanced Global Connectivity
Starting April 1, ITA Airways will be fully connected into Star Alliance's extensive global network. This integration links ITA Airways' primary hubs at Rome Fiumicino and Milan Linate airports with the collective network of 17 Star Alliance member airlines, providing access to more than 1,150 destinations worldwide.
Passengers traveling across the Star Alliance network can now benefit from numerous advantages when flying with ITA Airways, including through check-in services, reciprocal frequent flyer program recognition, and access to Star Alliance lounges worldwide. These enhancements create a more seamless and integrated travel experience for customers traveling to, from, and within Italy.
Leadership Perspectives on the Alliance
Star Alliance Chief Executive Officer Theo Panagiotoulias expressed enthusiasm about the new partnership, stating: "On behalf of our members, I am delighted to welcome ITA Airways as the 26th member of Star Alliance. This is the result of a focused and collaborative integration effort. With ITA Airways on board, we not only expand our network to and from Italy, but also elevate the connected experience of our customers when traveling across multiple airlines."
Panagiotoulias emphasized the practical benefits for travelers, including access to the world's largest network of airport lounges, more comprehensive loyalty benefits, and enhanced services like baggage tracking designed to improve the journey at every step.
ITA Airways' Strategic Vision
Joerg Eberhart, CEO and General Manager of ITA Airways, highlighted the strategic importance of this alliance for the Italian carrier: "Joining Star Alliance marks a historic milestone for ITA Airways and a defining step in our growth. By becoming part of the world's largest and most established global airline network, we significantly expand our international reach while offering our passengers a more seamless, consistent and high-quality travel experience."
Eberhart noted that ITA Airways brings its distinctive Italian identity to the alliance, combining global standards of excellence with the warmth and elegance that characterize Italian aviation. The airline now offers access to over 1,150 destinations worldwide, smoother connections, integrated services, and a strengthened premium travel proposition.
Lufthansa Group's Mentorship Role
The integration process was facilitated through mentorship from the Lufthansa Group, with expert teams across the group's airlines supporting an intensive integration program over several months. This collaborative effort ensured a smooth transition for ITA Airways into the Star Alliance ecosystem.
Dieter Vranckx, Chief Commercial Officer of Lufthansa Group, commented on the successful partnership: "The Star Alliance membership is only possible thanks to the strong commitment and close collaboration of dedicated teams at ITA Airways, Lufthansa Group and Star Alliance. We are pleased to introduce ITA Airways as fully fledged hub airline into the Lufthansa Group and into the Alliance, expanding options for travelers across Europe and the world."
Vranckx emphasized that together, ITA Airways and the Lufthansa Group are unlocking a joint value proposition that will benefit customers, partners, and the broader Star Alliance ecosystem. This strategic alignment creates new opportunities for enhanced service delivery and network optimization across European and global routes.
