On July 3, 2024, the European Commission greenlit Lufthansa's acquisition of a 41% stake in Ita Airways, which is currently wholly owned by the Italian government. The decision follows several months of deliberation and includes specific conditions regarding airport slots to protect competition. These conditions ensure competitive balance at Milan Linate Airport, on routes between Italy and Central Europe, and between Rome Fiumicino and North America. In a statement, European Commission Vice President Margrethe Vestager noted, "The remedy package proposed by Lufthansa and the Italian Ministry of Economy fully addresses our competition concerns, ensuring sufficient competitive pressure remains on all relevant routes." The acquisition will proceed through a capital increase of €325 million. The agreement stipulates that Lufthansa can fully acquire Ita Airways by 2033, with a total investment of €829 million.
