Italy’s flag carrier, ITA Airways, is about to commence direct flights between Rome and Jeddah in Saudi Arabia. The service will be beginning on August 1, 2024.

Volare – ITA Airways’ loyalty program management convened with prominent frequent flyers and business partners in downtown New York to deliver updates on the program’s 2023 advancements and milestones.

ITA Airways unveiled the launch of its newest space, the Fantasia Lounge, dedicated specifically to unaccompanied minors within Terminal 1 of Rome Fiumicino Leonardo da Vinci Airport. The inauguration event was graced by the presence of Andrea Benassi, ITA Airways’ General Manager, and Giovanni Perosino, the Chief Marketing Officer. During this event, they introduced ITA Airways’ latest offerings for children to the Italian press and distinguished guests.

ITA Airways introduces “Instant Upgrade,” a novel service tailored for customers seeking a seamless online method to purchase a direct upgrade to a higher flight class. Commencing 72 hours prior to departure, existing Economy Class or Premium Economy ticket holders with ITA Airways can opt for an upgrade, accessing superior services and comforts in the Business or Premium Economy class.

ITA Airways is expanding its services to the UK in response to strong demand from travelers in both leisure and business sectors. One notable addition is the introduction of a new nonstop flight route connecting Rome Fiumicino (FCO) and London City Airport (LCY) using the latest Airbus A220-100 aircraft. This new route will commence operations on April 1st, 2024, with a schedule offering 12 weekly flights.

Effective December 1st, ITA Airways will operate its new Airbus A321neo daily on the Rome Fiumicino – London Heathrow route. Departing from Rome at 2:00 p.m. and arriving at London Heathrow by 4:30 p.m., the service offers a convenient schedule for travelers.

From April 7, 2024, the Italian carrier will operate 6X-weekly flights between Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO) and Chicago O’Hare International Airport, which will become the seventh U.S. airport to which ITA will fly. The service will increase to daily from June 2024.

ITA Airways says it has been forced to cancel 133 domestic and international flights due to the strike, with a list of the cancelled flights available on its website.

The aircraft will be christened after the football legend Alessandro Mazzola – the well-loved European Champion with the Italian national team in 1968.

There are reports from various news sources that Lufthansa has emerged as the likely buyer of the offered shares in ITA Airways (aka ITA Spa).