It was a decidedly long process, that Merger between Ita Airways and Lufthansabut finally the green light has come. The European Commission requested assurances regarding the agreements to guarantee fair competition with other airlines. A stage finally opened, with Green light from Brussels Which sets a system in motion officially starting in 2025.
Agreement with Ita Airways and Lufthansa, EU
The European Commission approved the list. Amendment offered by Mef and by the airlines themselves, to avoid unfair competition. Balance in air transportation will be guaranteed and now Lufthansa is really preparing to get one. Minority share In the capital of Eta Airways.
A day of great importance for the future of the Italian career, despite those who criticize the deal and talk of a “fire sale”. The Minister of Economy, Giancarlo Giorgetti expressed himself as follows: “After the MPS, we also see the finish line for ETA. We are satisfied with this new phase. Now we have to go to the last mile.”
So many signatures were made. Contracts with competing companies:
- EasyJet – 30 daily slots to Linate airport and around 10 intra-European routes covered by Ita and Lufthansa direct flights.
- Air France, KLM and IAG – facilitated direct connections to other European hubs for these three carriers, on routes between Fiumicino and Washington, Toronto and San Francisco.
How much does the Ita-Lufthansa merger cost?
As Giorgetti explains, the last mile is missing. This means arranging a shareholders’ meeting Capital increase Exclusive to Lufthansa by 325 million. We will go ahead with the acquisition of 41% of Ita Airways, which will lead to long-awaited commercial synergies. The Italian carrier will be able to cooperate with the entire network of Brussels Airlines, Austrian, Swiss and Eurowings.
In addition to what will change for customers, the company will, for example, have the opportunity to sell its loyalty program globally. Miles and more. Incentives are also guaranteed on fuel and purchase of new aircraft to add to the existing fleet.
In Europe, it will become Eta Airways. Second domestic market Of the group, after Lufthansa obviously, in terms of business. In this scenario, the Rome Fiumicino airport will be of great importance, which is geographically set to become the hub of the southernmost German group.
The merger will add two members to the five-member board of directors. will be equal to the total investment. 829 million eurosAccording to current estimates:
- A first tranche of 235 million euros, useful for a 41% capital increase of Ita Airways;
- 325 million second tranche for Mef
- 100 million clause, guaranteed only on the occurrence of certain conditions.
However, we also have our eyes on the near future. In fact, between 2028 and 2029, the company can exercise an attractive option in the contract. with the 79 million euros More items will be purchased. 10% morewhich will change the internal balance.
