Lufthansa's entry into Ita Airways, a "success" for Italy, Germany, and Europe.

Lufthansa's entry into Ita Airways, a "success" for Italy, Germany, and Europe The long-awaited approval given by the European Commission for the entry of the German airline Lufthansa into the capital of the Italian Ita Airways has been received with enthusiasm and optimism in Italy, Germany, and throughout the European continent. Italy's Minister of Economy, Giancarlo Giorgetti, did not hesitate to describe this approval as a "success" during a joint press conference in Rome. After almost a year of intense negotiations, the European green light represents a significant milestone for both nations and for the future of the aviation industry in Europe. The union between Lufthansa and Ita Airways, the airline that emerged from the ashes of Alitalia and is currently owned by the Italian State, marks the closure of a historic chapter that has generated controversy and anticipation in recent months. Ita Airways' president, Antonino Turicchi, along with Lufthansa's CEO, Carsten Spohr, joined Minister Giorgetti to celebrate this agreement that promises to bring significant benefits. Giorgetti emphasized that this operation will allow Italy to consolidate its position as a strategic point for air connections with America, Africa, and Asia, turning Rome into an important international hub. One of the highlights of this union is the elimination of the need for Italians to continue contributing billions to cover the losses accumulated by Ita Airways. Additionally, there is a long-term perspective for current and former Alitalia employees, with the possibility of reabsorbing personnel based on Ita's development. The company resulting from this partnership will be subject to a rigorous industrial plan supported by the joint operation with Lufthansa, which promises to boost competitiveness and sustainable growth. Carsten Spohr, Lufthansa's CEO, expressed his satisfaction with the operation, welcoming Ita Airways to the group. The European Commission's approval has been conditioned on a series of commitments from both parties, including the transfer of assets and slots to operate short-haul routes, as well as measures to promote competition on long-haul routes. This caution is due to concerns that Lufthansa's acquisition of 41% of Ita Airways could affect competition on various routes. The operation, agreed upon in May between the Italian government and Lufthansa, has been seen as an opportunity to overcome the challenges inherited from Alitalia and lay the foundation for a new, more efficient and sustainable operational model over time. With the creation of Ita Airways as an independent entity from its predecessor, a new chapter in Italian aviation history begins. The Italian Association of Users and Consumers' Rights has celebrated this evolution as a necessary step to free Italy from the financial burden represented by Alitalia, pointing out that this transition was essential to ensure a more stable and profitable future for national and international aviation. The news has been received with relief and anticipation by sector experts and passengers who trust in a more modern and competitive aviation industry.