ROME— ITA Airways (AZ) is expected to join the Star Alliance network on April 1, 2026, marking a major shift in its global partnership strategy. The development, while not officially confirmed, has gained credibility following updates from Air China (CA) and growing alignment with Lufthansa Group operations.
The transition also connects key European hubs such as Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO) and Milan Linate Airport (LIN) more closely with the Star Alliance network. This move signals a broader restructuring of ITA Airways as it deepens integration with its new strategic partners.
ITA Airways Joining Star Alliance
Reports indicate that ITA Airways could formally enter Star Alliance on April 1, based on communication from Air China’s Phoenix Miles program.
The update suggests that frequent flyers will soon be able to earn and redeem miles on ITA-operated flights within the alliance framework.
Although neither ITA Airways nor Star Alliance has issued an official statement, industry observers consider the timeline credible. Airlines typically finalize such integrations before notifying loyalty program members, which strengthens confidence in the reported date.
If confirmed, the move will expand Star Alliance’s presence in Southern Europe and provide passengers with enhanced connectivity across member airlines.
It will also streamline benefits such as lounge access, priority services, and mileage accrual.
Lufthansa Group Integration
The anticipated alliance shift follows Lufthansa Group’s acquisition of a 41 percent stake in ITA Airways, completed in January 2025.
Since then, ITA has steadily aligned its operations, partnerships, and customer offerings with the German aviation group.
One of the most notable changes includes the discontinuation of ITA’s Volare frequent flyer program, scheduled to end on March 30, 2026, Upgraded Points reported.
The airline plans to transition customers into Lufthansa’s Miles & More program, ensuring continuity for loyal passengers.
Additionally, several previous partnerships under the SkyTeam alliance have already been phased out.
At the same time, Star Alliance carriers such as United Airlines and Air Canada have expanded cooperation with ITA, including mileage redemption options and reciprocal benefits.
Impact on ITA’s Network
Joining Star Alliance would significantly enhance ITA Airways’ global reach and operational efficiency. The airline would gain access to a network of over two dozen carriers, enabling seamless connections across Europe, North America, and Asia.
Passengers traveling through Rome and Milan could benefit from improved scheduling, coordinated services, and integrated booking systems. This alignment also strengthens ITA’s competitive position against other European carriers already embedded in major alliances.
The timing of this transition reflects a broader transformation within ITA Airways as it evolves from its Alitalia legacy into a more stable and globally connected airline.
While final confirmation is still pending, the sequence of recent developments strongly indicates that the airline is on track to join Star Alliance at the start of April 2026.
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