SkyTeam confirms ITA to replace Alitalia as Italian partner in alliance

SkyTeam has confirmed that new Italian carrier ITA Airways will replace defunct national operator Alitalia in the global alliance. ITA, which launched flights on 15 October after Alitalia ceased operations, had already indicated its intent to join SkyTeam. Alitalia was one of the earliest airline recruits to SkyTeam, joining the alliance in the summer of 2001, before calling time on operations earlier this year month. Alitalia had been in administration for more than four years amid continued financial challenges. SkyTeam has now confirmed ITA will replace Alitalia in the alliance. SkyTeam chairman, Korean Air CE Walter Cho, says: “For more than 20 years, the Italian market has been a cornerstone of SkyTeam’s European network and no other airline alliance connects Italy better to the world. We warmly welcome ITA Airways’ decision to join our alliance and ensure continuity of service for the millions of customers who choose SkyTeam as their preferred alliance to Italy.”<br/>