In case anyone is having doubts that ITA Airways has the blood of Aliatla still, the airline has cosied straight back up with SkyTeam.
As we all know, Alilata ceased trading on the 14th of October, with ITA Airways taking its place the day after. At that time, Alilatalia left SkyTeam, leaving an Italian shaped hole in the network.
It seems a mere 14 days later, ITA Airways is taking Alitalia’s place.
SkyTeam has agreed with Alitalia Loyalty to continue the partnership that will enable the six million members of the MilleMiglia frequent flyer program to earn and redeem miles on selected SkyTeam members’ flights, offering a wealth of opportunities and exclusive services.
ITA Airways is also working closely with SkyTeam and its members to roll out SkyTeam-branded benefits that customers enjoy across the alliance, including priority airport services.
With ITA Airways on board, SkyTeam’s 700 million customers will continue to enjoy connections to key destinations across Italy.
In Quotes
Walter Cho, SkyTeam Chairman said
“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,”
“SkyTeam and our members look forward to working with ITA Airways to establish long-term partnership opportunities going forward.”
Alfredo Altavilla, Executive Chairman of ITA Airways said
“Joining SkyTeam is a natural step, enabling us to continue to deliver a global network and seamless experience that customers flying to and from Italy expect. We look forward to close cooperation with our SkyTeam partners to support the start-up of our company, the Italian flag carrier.”
Anyone remotely surprised?
Well. I’m filing this as “totally expected”.
For MilleMiglia members, it’s a chance to use those miles you’ve built up. Even if the website seems mildly broken at the time of writing
For now, the SkyTeam connections are restored – a welcome thing for travellers as the world continues to open up.
And as for ITA Airways? More codeshare opportunities as it starts to strike its own path away from the past Alilatia. And hopefully, a better managed balance sheet.
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