The future of Ita Airways, the Italian airline that took over from Alitalia, is hanging by a thread after the final package of the alliance with Lufthansa was not sent to the European Commission, as expected. European sources reveal that the cause of this delay is linked to a sudden request to modify the agreement, which came from Lufthansa in the last few hours.
According to available information, the final plan for the alliance was ready and signed by both Ita and Lufthansa, as well as competing carriers such as easyJet, Air France and IAG, which are participating in the slot agreement. However, the final signature of the Ministry of Economy and Finance (MEF), which is essential to proceed, was missing.
“We are in contact with Lufthansa and the Italian Ministry of Economy”, commented a spokesperson for the European Commission. The emphasis is on the need to analyze the agreement agreed between the parties. Lufthansa’s request for renegotiation came unexpectedly. The German company asked for a reduction in the price of the second tranche of the agreement, justifying its position with the costs of investments made after the 2023 pact. This request raised concerns at the MEF, which considered the operation unacceptable for various reasons.
The Ministry stressed that the investments made had been previously agreed with Lufthansa. In addition, Ita has significantly improved its economic situation, increasing its value. In response to the situation, Lufthansa confirmed its adherence to the original 2023 agreement to acquire a 41% stake in Ita Airways and completed the necessary corrective measures within the established deadline. The agreement now seems to be in a critical phase. According to the latest rumors, there have been attempts to discuss some contractual clauses regarding the amount to be paid following the first capital increase reserved for Lufthansa.
The evolution of the situation between Ita and Lufthansa will have significant implications not only for the two companies but also for the European air market. As negotiations continue, it remains to be seen whether they will be able to find common ground or whether they will be forced to completely reconsider the terms of the agreement. The future of Ita Airways could depend on the ability of the parties involved to overcome these difficulties and reach an agreement satisfactory for all.
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