Emirates and ITA Airways’ new agreement expands their existing interline into a full codeshare partnership. It will boost travel options and connection choices for customers traveling between Dubai, Italy and beyond.
The agreement lays the groundwork for a strengthened alliance, aiming to provide seamless one-stop connections to a host of Italian cities and broader European destinations via ITA Airways. Additionally, it will facilitate more efficient travel to Emirates’ expansive network from Dubai, optimizing routes, schedules, and connections for passengers.
Adnan Kazim, Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer at Emirates Airline, emphasizes the importance of this partnership in bolstering Emirates’ presence in Europe and providing customers with increased flexibility through ITA Airways’ extensive network.
“Working closely with ITA Airways will strengthen our footprint across exciting cities in Italy, and key points in Europe. We look forward to fully activate our partnership with ITA Airways in the coming months and providing unrivaled access to both of our growing networks,” said Kazim.
Antonino Turicchi, Chairman of ITA Airways says:
“We are pleased to sign this codeshare partnership with Emirates today. This MoU further enhances ITA Airways’ commercial strategy of growth and opens up a privileged access route to all passengers who will benefit the connectivity via Rome Fiumicino and Dubai. This agreement marks the Company’s 35th codeshare partnership, an excellent result we have achieved in just over two years.”
Connections to European cities such as Tirana and Sofia
Under the proposed codeshare agreement, Emirates’ passengers will gain smooth access to numerous domestic destinations in Italy, including sought-after tourist spots like Florence, Genoa, and Palermo, as well as connections to European cities such as Tirana and Sofia. This partnership will enhance the travel experience with streamlined ticketing and baggage transfers.
ITA Airways’ customers will likewise enjoy expanded travel options, connecting effortlessly to Emirates’ route network from Dubai through Rome. This collaboration aims to boost inbound tourism to Italy from key Emirates markets, including Australia, the Far East, the Middle East/GCC, and West Asia.
Additionally, the MoU explores the possibility of offering reciprocal benefits to frequent flyers of both airlines in the future. Pending necessary approvals, the codeshare flights will gradually become available to customers through online platforms and travel agencies.
Since initiating service to Italy in 1992, Emirates has grown its operation to include 41 weekly flights to four Italian gateways—Rome, Milan, Venice, and Bologna—utilizing a fleet of Boeing 777s and Airbus A380s.