ITA Airways is formally on track to become the newest member of Star Alliance, with the airline expected to complete its integration in early 2026.
The move follows ITA’s induction into the Lufthansa Group earlier this year, and with Star Alliance’s Chief Executive Board giving the green light, the onboarding process is now in full swing.
“In early 2026, ITA Airways is expected to officially join the Star Alliance network as a full member,” Star Alliance CEO Theo Panagiotoulias said.
“The decision by our Chief Executive Board underscores the strong confidence our members have in ITA Airways.
“As a gateway for Italy, its addition strengthens our global network, offering seamless and connected journeys to more travellers worldwide.”
Once fully integrated, ITA will bring an additional 360 daily flights to the Star Alliance network, strengthening its European presence – particularly in Rome and Milan, where 16 Star Alliance members already operate.
“We are excited to join the Star Alliance network and to bring the excellence of Made in Italy into the alliance, further enhancing its global reach,” ITA Airways CEO and General Manager Joerg Eberhart said.
“This is a significant milestone in ITA Airways’ growth, and we look forward to offering our customers the future privileges of the world’s largest airline network.”
With ITA’s membership, Lufthansa Group will be represented by five hub airlines in the alliance.
“As the mentor of the membership process, we will do our utmost to ensure a smooth and swift integration. ITA Airways’ future membership will provide Star Alliance customers with many new opportunities for personalised travel planning,” Lufthansa Group Chief Commercial Officer Dieter Vranckx said.
“I am confident that ITA Airways will be an excellent addition to the Star Alliance portfolio.”
The addition of ITA will increase the Alliance’s membership to 26 airlines, collectively offering over 18,000 daily flights across 192 countries.
The Italian flag carrier joined German-owned Lufthansa Group in February, making it the Group’s fifth network airline.
