ITA Airways, based in Rome Fiumicino, is currently in the process of developing a new, more ambitious fleet plan that will see the addition of four widebody aircraft by 2027. According to CEO Jörg Eberhart, this plan will accelerate long-haul growth and aim for a fleet of 30 long-haul aircraft by 2030. The specific aircraft types to be added have not yet been announced.
Currently, ITA Airways has 25 widebody aircraft in its fleet, including five A330-200s, fourteen A330-900Ns, and six A350-900s. However, the airline is awaiting delivery of three more A330-900Ns and two A350-900s, bringing the total to 30.
Eberhart emphasized that long-haul operations from Rome Fiumicino will continue to be a key component of ITA’s strategy. The airline is currently considering new transatlantic routes, including Rome to New York Newark, pending regulatory approval of its A++ alliance with United Airlines, Air Canada, and Lufthansa. Eberhart expressed confidence that the necessary approvals will be granted by November 2026.
When asked about the potential for expansion to Asia, Eberhart noted that ongoing conflicts and airspace restrictions in the region make it a challenging and expensive market. As a result, the airline plans to focus on increasing routes to Latin America and North America.
ITA Airways is also facing disruptions due to ongoing engine inspections for its narrowbody fleet. Eberhart stated that this has resulted in an average of 18 aircraft being grounded, with 15 still currently out of service. The estimated cost of these disruptions is approximately EUR150 million euros (USD176 million).
In response to union pressure and recent strikes, ITA Airways plans to hire an additional 500 employees, including 100 pilots and 400 flight attendants. Eberhart stated that this hiring represents the airline’s steady growth and hopes that it will be appreciated by the unions.
Additionally, the airline is looking to increase the use of part-time options for cabin crew, which has been received positively by staff and has the potential to improve productivity. When it comes to potential pay raises, Eberhart emphasized the need for compromise between the company’s financial situation and the needs of its employees. He stated that granting large raises could impact the airline’s growth, ability to hire more employees, and career progression opportunities.
ITA Airways is aiming to achieve a positive EBIT in 2025, which would be a significant accomplishment for the airline. However, it is still expecting a net loss of approximately EUR100 million (USD117 million) due to ongoing leasing and financing costs.
On the commercial side, Eberhart stated that the airline plans to retain its current brand while incorporating elements from its predecessor, Alitalia. This may include reviving iconic design elements from the 1960s, such as the tail.