ITA Airways Announces Seasonal Flights from Rome to Houston

ITA Airways, Italy’s flagship carrier, has announced plans to launch seasonal flights between Rome’s Fiumicino Leonardo da Vinci Airport (FCO) and Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) starting May 1, 2026. The new route will be operated three times a week on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays from May 1 to May 31, and five times a week from June 1 to October 24 on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

Expansion into the U. S.

According to ITA CEO Joerg Eberhart, the new route to Houston will further expand the airline’s intercontinental network and consolidate its presence in the U. S. , which is its most important international market. Currently, ITA serves eight other destinations in North America, including Boston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, San Francisco, Washington D. C. , and Toronto.

The FCO-IAH route will be operated with an Airbus A330-900, featuring a business class cabin. This will be the first nonstop flight between the two cities.

Part of the Lufthansa Group and Star Alliance

ITA’s expansion into the U. S. market is part of its partnership with the Lufthansa Group. In January, the group acquired a 41% stake in the Italian carrier and plans to take full control by 2027. As part of this partnership, ITA will align its schedule and loyalty program with the Lufthansa Group and its global partners, including United Airlines.

In September, ITA also launched a loyalty tie-up with United and plans to merge its Volare loyalty program with Lufthansa’s Miles & More program by February. The airline is also in the process of joining the Star Alliance, with plans to become a member next year.

Gateway to Latin America

Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport is a major gateway for United Airlines to Latin America, making it an attractive destination for ITA. In an interview last October, Eberhart also mentioned Newark Liberty International Airport as a potential future destination for the airline in the U. S.

With the addition of the FCO-IAH route, ITA’s network will continue to grow and strengthen its position as Italy’s leading airline. Travelers can look forward to experiencing the airline’s world-class service and expanding their travel options to and from Europe.