ITA Airways Approves 2026-2030 Strategic Plan: Long-Haul Expansion, Next-Gen Fleet, and Full Lufthansa Integration
ITA Airways' board has approved a new business plan that will see its fleet modernized to nearly 100 next-generation aircraft by 2030 and its Rome Fiumicino hub aggressively developed, by adding one new long-haul aircraft per year starting in 2026.
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The Board of Directors of ITA Airways today, July 30, 2025, approved its Strategic Plan for the 2026-2030 period, a document that charts the course for the Italian carrier as an integral part of the Lufthansa Group. The strategy is built on three fundamental pillars: strengthening its competitive position, developing its network and fleet with a strong emphasis on long-haul routes, and deepening operational and commercial synergies with its German partner.
This plan is the natural next step following the acquisition of a majority stake by Lufthansa, a strategic move aimed at transforming Rome Fiumicino (FCO) airport into the main southern European hub for the group.
At the core of the plan is an ambitious expansion of the long-haul network. ITA Airways plans to launch new routes connecting Rome Fiumicino with key destinations in North America, South America, Asia, and Africa. The goal is to capitalize on growing global demand, promote tourism to Italy, and strengthen commercial and cultural exchanges.
In addition to intercontinental growth, the airline will enhance its connectivity within Europe and the Mediterranean, leveraging strategic agreements and partnerships to offer efficient connections from its main hub.
Key Takeaways from the ITA Airways 2026-2030 Plan
What are the planned new routes? ITA plans to open new services to destinations in North America, South America, Asia, and Africa, although specific cities were not named.
What aircraft will ITA Airways use? The fleet will consist almost exclusively of new-generation Airbus aircraft: A220, A320neo, A330neo, and A350-900.
When will it join Star Alliance? Full integration into Star Alliance is scheduled for early 2026.
What benefits will the Lufthansa alliance bring? Passengers will gain access to a wider global network, coordinated services, and synergies between the Volare (ITA) and Miles & More (Lufthansa) loyalty programs.
Fleet modernization is another central pillar. The plan calls for adding one new long-haul aircraft each year starting in 2026. The fleet will stabilize at around 100 aircraft, and by 2030, it will be composed almost entirely of next-generation models.
This renewal not only supports network growth but also responds to economic and environmental needs. The upcoming phase-out of free allowances in the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) makes operating older aircraft more expensive. Therefore, the commitment to fuel-efficient aircraft like the A330neo and A350 is also a strategic financial decision to reduce fuel consumption and CO_2 emissions.
Full Integration into the Lufthansa Ecosystem
Over the next five years, ITA Airways will deepen its integration with the Lufthansa Group. The company expects to fully join Star Alliance in early 2026, giving its passengers access to a worldwide network of destinations.
Furthermore, approval is pending for ITA to join the powerful transatlantic (A++) and Japan (J+) joint ventures, which coordinate flights and fares with partners like United, Air Canada, and All Nippon Airways. These alliances are crucial for competing on a global scale and will be complemented by synergies in cargo and unified benefits between the Volare and Miles & More loyalty programs.
Joerg Eberhart, CEO and General Manager of ITA Airways, added that "The approved Business Plan makes it possible for ITA Airways to continue developing sustainably through Lufthansa Group synergies. With the expansion of our network, the adoption of cutting-edge technologies, partnerships with major global players, and our commitment to service excellence, we will be able by 2030 to bring more and more passengers—departing to and from Italy—to choose ITA Airways."
Sandro Pappalardo, President of ITA Airways, expressed his appreciation to the teams who worked on the plan, which "will guide and ensure the development of the Company in the next five years." With this foundation, the airline aims to solidify its position as a competitive and sustainable player in the global aviation market.
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