ITA Airways has officially joined Star Alliance, becoming the alliance’s 26th member and expanding connectivity across Italy and the wider global network.
The integration became effective on 1 April 2026, following a structured onboarding programme supported by Lufthansa Group and Star Alliance member airlines.
NETWORK EXPANSION AND HUB INTEGRATION
With its inclusion, ITA Airways brings its Rome Fiumicino hub and Milan Linate operations into the Star Alliance network.
These hubs are now connected to more than 1,150 destinations worldwide, served collectively by alliance members, strengthening links between Italy, Europe and international markets.
The airline contributes over 350 daily flights and serves more than 16 million passengers annually, reinforcing the alliance’s presence in Southern Europe.
ENHANCED PASSENGER CONNECTIVITY
Passengers travelling across the Star Alliance network will benefit from integrated services, including:
- Through check-in across member airlines
- Access to a global network of airport lounges
- Reciprocal frequent flyer programme recognition
- Seamless baggage handling and tracking
These features are designed to improve connectivity and consistency across multi-airline journeys.
ROLE OF LUFTHANSA GROUP IN INTEGRATION
The integration process was mentored by Lufthansa Group, with teams across its airlines supporting the transition over several months.
ITA Airways’ inclusion also reflects closer alignment with Lufthansa Group’s broader network strategy, enhancing coordination across European and long-haul markets.
ALLIANCE SCALE AND INDUSTRY CONTEXT
With the addition of ITA Airways, Star Alliance now comprises 26 member airlines, offering more than 17,500 daily flights across a network spanning over 190 countries.
The expansion highlights the continued role of global airline alliances in enabling network reach, operational coordination and customer connectivity in international aviation.
SOURCE: Star Alliance / ITA Airways Release
