Lufthansa has announced plans to expand its ownership in ITA Airways to 90% through a €325 million agreement, marking a significant development in the ongoing consolidation of Europe’s airline industry.
The German airline group confirmed that it intends to exercise its option to acquire the additional stake in June 2026 at a previously agreed purchase price. The transaction has already received approval from Lufthansa’s board and remains subject to regulatory clearance from authorities in both the European Union and the United States.
Lufthansa initially acquired a 41% minority stake in ITA Airways in January 2025, with an agreement allowing gradual expansion of its ownership over time. Following the latest transaction, the Italian government’s holding in the airline will decrease from 59% to 10%.
Industry analysts believe the acquisition will strengthen Lufthansa’s strategic position in the Italian aviation market while expanding long-haul connectivity through Rome. The move is also viewed as part of a broader trend of consolidation among European carriers seeking greater operational efficiency and stronger regional networks.
Lufthansa stated that the increased ownership would allow ITA Airways to become fully integrated into the Lufthansa Group both operationally and financially. According to Lufthansa Chief Executive Officer Carsten Spohr, most customer-facing systems between the two airlines have already been integrated, except for certain North Atlantic operations that still require regulatory approval.
ITA Airways CEO Joerg Eberhart described the agreement as a major strategic milestone for the Italian carrier, emphasizing that deeper integration with Lufthansa would improve competitiveness in international markets.
The acquisition is expected to be finalized during the first quarter of 2027, pending all required approvals.
Following the announcement, Lufthansa shares recorded gains in European trading, reflecting positive investor sentiment toward the expansion strategy.
