Top Stories

New Delhi,29th April 2026; Air India has showed positive approach towards the Government of India’s push to operationalise the hub-and-spoke aviation model and announced that it is preparing to launch international connectivity from Varanasi under this model. Campbell Wilson, Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director, Air India, said: “This is a transformative step for Indian aviation. We would like to thank the Hon’ble Prime Minister for his vision, to make India a global aviation hub and develop the entire aviation ecosystem. The hub-and-spoke model will not only strengthen connectivity but also ensure optimal use of airport infrastructure developed across the country. We thank the Minister of Civil aviation for championing the entire Hub and Spoke model which will create a strong multiplier effect and act as a catalyst for India’s broader growth.” Wilson thanked the Civil Aviation Secretary for playing a key role by engaging closely with all stakeholders such as airlines, airports, government agencies to ensure that operational readiness, passenger convenience and security considerations were addressed holistically as the model moves towards implementation. As part of its network expansion and in alignment with the hub and spoke model, Air India is preparing to launch international connectivity from Varanasi, strengthening the city’s linkages with global destinations and enhancing access for passengers from surrounding regions. P. Balaji, Group Head – Governance, Risk, Compliance and Corporate Affairs, Air India, said: “The introduction of international hub-and-spoke connectivity from Varanasi underscores our focus on expanding India’s global aviation footprint beyond metros. It will provide tremendous boost to international travellers from India’s Tier 2 and tier 3 cities by cutting down travel time, while making travel seamless and convenient.” The hub-and-spoke model marks a fundamental shift in India’s aviation landscape – from a predominantly end destination market to a global transit ecosystem. It will help airlines optimise aircraft utilisation and contribute to decongestion at major airports by decentralising passenger processing, including customs and immigration, across spoke locations.

Mumbai ,29th April, 2026 : Safran Aircraft Engines has signed a MoU with Uni Tritech , a Neterwala Group company, to manufacture components for the CFM LEAP engine program. This collaboration marks a major milestone in strengthening Safran Aircraft Engines’ supply chain and advancing India’s capabilities in high-precision aerospace manufacturing. Under this agreement, Uni Tritech Private Limited will start production of aluminum investment cast parts for the LEAP-1A and LEAP-1B engines at its facility in Dharwad, Karnataka (India). The components will be cast, precisely machined, and receive specialized treatments in India, in accordance with the strict quality, safety, and certification standards required for new-generation commercial aircraft engines. The LEAP engine powers the world’s most advanced single-aisle commercial aircraft and sets a benchmark for fuel efficiency, performance, and durability. This partnership is fully aligned with Safran Aircraft Engines’ strategy to build a resilient and diversified global supply chain, while further consolidating India’s role as a key aerospace manufacturing hub. The collaboration will leverage Uni Tritech’s advanced foundry technologies, precision machining, and proprietary metallurgical processes, to deliver products meeting the highest standards of performance, durability, and reliability. LEAP engines are a product of CFM International, a 50/50 joint company between Safran Aircraft Engines (France) and GE Aerospace (United States of Americas) Leadership Commentary “This partnership with Safran Aircraft Engines marks a defining milestone for Uni Tritech and the Neterwala Group. It highlights our expertise in advanced metallurgy and precision engineering, as well as our commitment to supporting global aerospace programs. By manufacturing critical LEAP engine components in India, we are proud to contribute to the growth of a globally competitive aerospace ecosystem.” Said Kuldeep Bhan, Group President – Global Metallurgy Business, Neterwala Group “Our collaboration with Uni Tritech, Safran Aircraft Engines’ first aluminum foundry partner in India, marks an important step in strengthening the resilience and diversity of our global supply chain. This initiative also highlights India’s expanding role as a key aerospace manufacturing hub, as we work together to supply high-precision components and support the fast-growing ramp-up of the LEAP engine program with the highest industry standards.” said Dominique Dupuy, Safran Aircraft Engines, Vice President, Purchasing. Strengthening Global Aerospace Collaboration This agreement highlights the growing alignment between global aerospace industry leaders and Indian manufacturers. It reflects a shared vision to foster innovation, accelerate skills development, and build long-term industrial partnerships to support the future of aviation.

Textron Aviation recently introduced the new aircraft Citation Ascend with modified cabin interiors and avionics. At the Singapore Airshow 2026, from the deck of Textron Aviation chalet, Mr. Tony Jones, Vice President, Sales, Asia Pacific, Textron Aviation in an exclusive interview with Vishal Kashyap, Managing Editor, Aviation World discussed about the importance and vision for the Indian market . Excerpts… AW:India being one of your priority markets, what products you’re looking forward to introduce into the region? TJ: India is a priority market and it’s been very busy for us in the last couple of years. We continue to build on the success we’ve had for many years in India. What is exciting for us in particular is that we recently delivered an XLS Gen 2 to a long-term customer in India and now we’re moving to the Citation Ascend, which was recently certified and this particular aircraft has high interest in the region. The Citation Latitude is also an increasingly popular aircraft in the Indian market due to its range and cabin interiors. Its operating economics makes it a very smart choice for regional transportation in India. Recently, our corporate demonstrator Citation Latitude was on a demo tour in India and it was showcased to the operators who showed keen interest in this particular aircraft. AW:How do you assess the increase in the potential customers with the rise in number of HNWIs? TJ: We see a lot of growth in the market as there is lot of customers who are realizing the benefits of corporate aviation. Some of them have been chartering aircrafts for the last, particularly in a post-COVID environment. They understand what it means to them and the productivity benefits they get from charter. We’re talking to a number of customers across the region that is looking to make that first step into taking ownership of an aircraft and our Citation product range like the M2, CJ3 and CJ4, all of the Gen 2 Jets has a lot of interest among them. We have got a great support network in and around India as it’s a very logical choice and Citation is all about lowering your risk. AW: How was the response in India during the demo flight? TJ: We took the aircraft to India purely due to the high demand of people who wanted to see this aircraft. We have several customers who have seen the aircraft outside India and they really appreciated it. There are strong words and interest out that the Citation Latitude is such a good fit for the market and it was a logical step to get the aircraft and present it among the potential Indian customers. AW: When the Indian DGCA certification expected for the Cessna Latitude? TJ: For the Cessna Latitude, the DGCA certification is underway at the moment. The step was taken by the company based on the demand from the customers in anticipation for the deliveries. AW: Can you share about the type of Textron Aviation aircraft operating in India? TJ: Textron Aviation has got a vast range of products in the general & business aviation space. We have turboprops for regional connectivity and then Citation jets of different variants operating into India as well as aircraft used for training purpose. We have recently delivered an aircraft to an Indian customer and we are continuing to see a lot of interest in this country. That’s one of the reasons why we’ve been spending so much time there and working closely with our customers. AW: Which other region is key market for you? TJ: It’s a really difficult question to answer and the reason is we’ve just got such a broad range of aircraft. In some regions, our planes used for the training sector will be very-very strong, whereas in some regions it will be for our jets and turboprops, depending on the nature fitting the right aircraft for the mission. Across the region, we’re seeing a lot of interest in the products and there’s a lot of strength in the market and there’s continued interest. For us, we benefit from having probably most of the support network in the region as well. We have proven products, great owners and operators and maintenance companies who understand our product. We continue to invest in the aircraft that we’re manufacturing and also in its incremental improvements. AW: How you are addressing the backlog issues? TJ: We don’t go into specifics around delivery but across the industry. Yes, there is a high demand and there are longer lead times than we’ve probably experienced in more recent years. I don’t think that’s something going to go away and we encourage our customers to plan the replacement of their aircraft accordingly. They have to look at the long-term needs of the business and work with companies like Textron Aviation to plan out how they are going to replace their existing aircraft; when they need to be replaced and how they are going to dispose their current aircraft. I think long lead times is going to be here for a while and the most important message we get to our customers is to talk to them about making a company that can provide all the solutions. AW: How do you see the Any concluding remarks for your Indian customers from the Textron family? TJ: We have announced bringing the upgraded products of the M2 Gen 3, the CJ3 Gen 3 and the CJ4 Gen 3 aircraft to the market. One of the most significant features that we’ve incorporated in these aircraft is apart from an incremental improvement across the platform, they all will be fitted with Garmin Emergency Auto Land. That is something our customers really appreciated and it’s generating a lot of interest among them. On the CJ4 Gen 3, we’ve also moved across to the full Garmin 3000 avionics as well. I’m a huge believer and a great supporter of the Indian market and we’re looking forward to working with our channel

New Delhi, 19th April 2026: Air India unveiled its first retrofitted, twin-aisle B787-8 (registered VT-ANT), marking the completion of a nose-to-tail cabin refresh of the first of 26 B787 aircraft. The aircraft, which received comprehensive interior upgrades at Boeing’s Modification Center in Victorville, California, was subsequently painted in Air India’s new livery at AeroPro, an FAA Part-145 certified aircraft paint facility in San Bernardino, California. Refreshed cabins, upgraded experience As part of the retrofit, the aircraft interiors were completely reconfigured, transforming it from a two-class layout previously to a modern three-class configuration now with the installation of brand-new seats and inflight entertainment (IFE) system, and bringing the aircraft in line with Air India’s latest widebody product standards, as seen on its new bespoke Boeing 787-9 inducted in January 2026. The first B787 took close to 12,825 manhours over 45 days for the retrofit, as teams progressed through a tightly choreographed workflow – from stripping out the legacy interiors to reconfiguring the cabins, installing new seats, carpets, wall laminates, overhauling galleys, lavatories, and rigorously testing the new seating and cabin components. Refurbishing the first aircraft required a total of: -475 metres of fabric for new seats across cabins -167 metres of synthetic leather -169 metres of carpet -646 litres of paint -The aircraft exterior received a complete makeover as well, with a 20‑member specialist team dedicating over 5,700 hours over 18 days to strip the old livery and meticulously apply the new Air India colours. The custom-styled cabins now feature: :- 20 luxurious private suites in Business Class in a 1-2-1 layout, each offering privacy sliding doors, direct aisle access, 42-inch of pitch, fully flat 79‑inch bed, 17‑inch 4K QLED HDR touchscreen, multiple charging options, a softly lit cubby, vanity mirror, headphone hook, and a jaali‑inspired feature lamp. :- 25 Premium Economy seats in a 2-3-2 layout, each offering enhanced privacy, 38‑inch pitch, 7‑inch recline, 6‑way headrest, calf and leg rest, 13.3‑inch 4K QLED HDR screens, Type A and C fast charging ports, and a bottle holder for added convenience. :- 205 Economy Class seats in a 3-3-3 layout, each ergonomically optimised, offering 31/32‑inch pitch, 5‑inch recline, 11.6‑inch 4K QLED HDR touchscreen, and Type A and C charging ports. :- Additional enhancements across cabins encompass new carpets and curtains, new wall laminates, galley overhauls, refresh of all lavatories, replacement or refurbishment of overhead bin panels, installation of a new Cabin Service System, and an updated Crew Application Panel interface. :- The cabins feature customised versions of the Elevate Ascent seat in Business Class and RECARO PL3530 and CL3710 seats in Premium Economy and Economy Class, respectively. All seats are equipped with Thales’ state-of-the-art AVANT Up inflight entertainment (IFE) system. Campbell Wilson, CEO & MD, Air India, said, “This is a yet another proud milestone in our transformation journey as we welcome this transformed legacy B787 aircraft as a shining beacon of the new Air India. The retrofit of our first widebody aircraft is a visible symbol of the momentum behind Air India’s transformation. With 25 other 787s undergoing this comprehensive refresh, we are rapidly modernising the backbone of our long‑haul fleet and raising the bar for customers flying between India and the world.” Progress of retrofit programme Air India will be retrofitting 25 additional B787 aircraft over the next year, two of which are already undergoing the process, as part of a US$400 million investment to modernise the airline’s legacy fleet. The B787 retrofit programme has been jointly conceptualised and executed with Boeing, ensuring the highest standards of quality and safety in the aircraft and throughout the process. Upon full completion of the B787 retrofit program by 2027, Air India aims to significantly upgrade the onboard product and passenger experience on over 300 flights per week to destinations across the United Kingdom, Europe, and Australia. Air India will subsequently retrofit 13 of its legacy B777-300ER aircraft. This initiative forms a key part of Air India’s broader fleet modernisation efforts, delivering elevated comfort, privacy, and entertainment options while reinforcing the airline’s position as a premium global carrier.

New Delhi,17th April 2026: Air India has announced new interline partnership with WestJet, Canadian carrier to boost connectivity between India and North America beyond Toronto and Vancouver.The partnership enables single-ticket itineraries combining Air India and WestJet flights, offering smoother journeys, coordinated baggage handling, and simplified journeys for travellers. Through this partnership, Air India guests travelling to Toronto or Vancouver can take onward connections on WestJet to 17 Canadian cities and 14 U.S. cities, namely: Canadian cities: Calgary, Edmonton, Montreal, Winnipeg, Halifax, Ottawa, Regina, Saskatoon, Kelowna, St. John’s, Prince George, Victoria, Fort St. John, Terrace, Cranbrook, Comox, Nanaimo. U.S. cities: San Francisco, Los Angeles, Atlanta, Detroit, Orlando, Phoenix, Tampa, Nashville, Las Vegas, San Diego, Fort Lauderdale, Palm Springs, Santa Ana, Fort Myers. Halifax, Calgary and St. John’s are also accessible via Air India’s select European gateways at Amsterdam (Schiphol), Paris (Charles de Gaulle), London (Heathrow), and London (Gatwick). Nipun Aggarwal, Chief Commercial Officer, Air India, said: “Canada continues to be a key market for Air India, driven by strong people‑to‑people ties and increasing trade between our nations. By partnering with WestJet, we are making travel across North America more accessible and effortless for our guests, with coordinated baggage handling, single‑ticket convenience, and a far wider choice of destinations.” John Weatherill, Executive Vice-President and Chief Commercial Officer, the WestJet Group, said: “By bringing this interline agreement to life, we’re significantly expanding access between India and Canada, making it easier for our shared guests to seamlessly visit high-demand destinations across North America. This partnership aligns Air India’s long-haul strength with WestJet’s North American reach, creating meaningful new travel options and improving the end-to-end journey for travellers.” Air India currently operates 17x weekly non-stop flights to Canada, including 10x weekly services to Toronto and 7x weekly services to Vancouver.To its European gateways that provide connections on WestJet flights to Canada, Air India operates a total of 75x weekly services, including 49x weekly to London (Heathrow), 5x weekly to London (Gatwick), 14x weekly to Paris (Charles de Gaulle) and 7x weekly to Amsterdam (Schiphol).

New Delhi, 16th April, 2026: At the closing ceremony of Routes Asia 2026 in Xi’an, China, the hosting rights for the 23rd edition of Routes Asia is formally handed over to India, marking a significant milestone for the country’s rapidly expanding aviation sector. Routes Asia is the only route development event dedicated to Asia Pacific, which provides platform for the region’s airlines, airports, tourism authorities and aviation stakeholders to meet, share best practice and come together to develop network strategies and ensure future route development across Asia Pacific. Reflecting this strong growth trajectory and rising global prominence of the Indian aviation sector,China West Airport Group have officially handed over the hosting responsibilities of the Routes Asia 2027 to India by entrusting the hosting baton to Vipin Kumar, Chairman, Airports Authority of India in a dedicated networking session hosted by India on the sidelines of Routes Asia 2026, being held from 12th–16th April.Routes Asia 2026 has brought together over 1,500 delegates, including representatives from 165 airports, 125 airlines, and 35 tourism and government bodies from across the Asia-Pacific region, facilitating strategic airport-to-airline meetings to strengthen regional and international air connectivity. On the occasion, Samir Kumar Sinha, Secretary, Ministry of Civil Aviation in video message welcomed global airline leaders, airport authorities, and tourism professionals to participate in Routes Asia 2027 and establish new travel corridors. The highlight of the event was that India is preparing to host 24th edition of Routes Asia 2027. The country is embarking on a transformative journey to unlock the full potential of its skies. It was also noted that the platform will foster new partnerships, strengthen air connectivity, and inspire the next generation of aviation professionals, while driving economic growth and showcasing the diversity of Incredible India. Emphasizing the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat,’ it reaffirmed India’s commitment to inclusive and sustainable development, building a future where innovation, connectivity, and opportunity define every flight and reflect the nation’s global aspirations. India will be hosting Routes Asia 2027 in New Delhi from 16th–18th March, 2027, at Bharat Mandapam. The event is expected to attract over 2,000 delegates, including decision-makers from leading airlines, airports, and tourism authorities across Asia and beyond. The announcement builds on the official declaration made on 2nd September, 2025, in New Delhi, confirming that on behalf of the country, the Airports Authority of India will host the prestigious aviation forum for the first time in the country’s history. India’s aviation sector is witnessing significant expansion across both domestic and international travel segments, strengthening its position as an important aviation hub in the Asia-Pacific region. Currently served by more than 80 domestic and international carriers, the country continues to strengthen its global connectivity. Hosting Routes Asia 2027 marks a historic first for India and reflects the country’s emergence as a global aviation leader. With 165 operational airports and continued expansion into tier II and tier III cities, India is creating a robust ecosystem for airlines and stakeholders to explore new markets and enhance connectivity to emerging destinations. The event is expected to play a pivotal role in revitalizing air route networks across the Asia-Pacific region, while enabling the development of new travel corridors linking Asia with Europe, North America, and beyond. India’s assumption of the Routes Asia hosting baton from China marks a defining moment in its aviation journey and sets the stage for a landmark edition of Routes Asia in 2027 carrying its inimitable legacy of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam – which means ‘the world is one family’.

Astana, 9th April 2026: Air Astana, the flag carrier of Kazakhstan, has launched a new direct service from Almaty to Shanghai from 9th April 2026 onwards. The opening of this new service to the Shanghai is a major step forward in the ongoing expansion of Air Astana’s network across the country. The new Almaty to Shanghai route, launched in end of March, operates three times per week and compliments Air Astana’s existing network of services to Beijing, Guangzhou, Sanya and Urumqui and Yining. The addition of Shanghai strengthens the airline’s long-term commitment to developing connectivity between Kazakhstan and China, which began with its first flight between Almaty and Beijing in December 2002. With Shanghai now part of the network, the Air Astana Group offers up to 32 weekly services between Kazakhstan and six Chinese cities, providing passengers with increased travel options and supporting both point-to-point and transit flows across Central Asia, the Caucasus, Europe and Asia. In 2025, the Group carried more than 250,000 passengers between Kazakhstan and China, representing a 96% increase compared to 2024. Commenting at the event, Ibrahim Canliel, Chief Executive Officer of Air Astana Group, said: “The launch of our Shanghai service is an important milestone in the development of our network and reflects the growing strength of ties between Kazakhstan and China. We see strong and accelerating demand across both business and leisure segments, supported by visa-free travel. Shanghai is a key global city, and this route, our sixth destination in China, will further enhance connectivity not only between our two countries, but also for passengers travelling onwards across our network.”

GURUGRAM, 07 April 2026: Air India group today announced further revisions to its fuel surcharge structure across domestic and international routes. A. Fuel Surcharge on Domestic India Routes Following the Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas’ and Ministry of Civil Aviation’s decision to cap domestic Aviation Turbine Fuel(ATF) price hike at 25%, Air India group is reflecting this calibrated approach, transitioning from a flat domestic surcharge to a distance‑based grid as follows, effective 08 April 2026 (including on Air India Express flights): A: FUEL SURCHARGE PER PASSENGER, PER SECTOR Distance Band (km)             Revised Fuel Surcharge                       Effective From 0–500                                         INR 299                                         0901 Hrs IST of 08 April 2026 501–1000                                   INR 399 1001–1500                                 INR 549 1501–2000                                INR 749 2000+                                         INR 899 B. Fuel Surcharge on International Routes At the same time, in the absence of any such mitigations on international ATF prices, the Air India group will be implementing more significant changes to fuel surcharges as below. According to the latest data published by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the global average jet fuel price rose to USD 195.19 per barrel for the week ending 27 March 2026, up from USD 99.40 at the end of February, recording a surge of close to 100%. ATF, produced by refining crude oil, has seen simultaneous increases in both its crude oil component as well as the refinery margin, known as ‘crack spread’, with the latter having nearly tripled within three weeks. It increased from USD 27.83 per barrel for the week ending 27 February to USD 81.44 for the week ending 27 March. This steep rise compounds the impact of rising crude oil prices, creating one of the most challenging fuel cost environments that airlines globally have faced in recent years. The fuel surcharges on international routes do not compensate for the exponential increase in jet fuel prices for international flights. Air India continues to absorb a significant portion of this increased cost. FUEL SURCHARGE PER PASSENGER,PER SECTOR – BY REGION Region                                Revised Fuel Surcharge                      Effective From SAARC (excluding Bangladesh)             USD 24                                  0901 Hrs IST of 08 April 2026 West Asia/Middle East              USD 50 China and Southeast Asia (excluding Singapore)                 USD 100 Singapore                                      USD 60 Africa                                             USD 130 Europe (including the United Kingdom) USD 205                             0001 Hrs IST of 10 April 2026 North America                             USD 280 Australia                                        USD 280 Revisions to fuel surcharge on flights to and from Bangladesh and Far East destinations, namely Japan, Hong Kong, and South Korea, will be advised in due course subject to the requisite regulatory approvals. For the avoidance of doubt, tickets that have already been issued prior to the above times will not attract the new surcharge unless customers seek date or itinerary changes that require a recalculation of the fare. Air India will review its surcharges periodically and make appropriate adjustments as the situation requires.

Astana, 6th April 2026: As part of its fleet expansion plan, Air Astana has received a new Airbus A321neo aircraft on 3rd April 2026, delivered directly from the manufacturer’s facility in Hamburg, Germany. The aircraft has become the 63rd in Air Astana Group’s fleet and will support further capacity growth and the development of the airline’s route network. Air Astana’s fleet predominantly consists of Airbus aircraft, ensuring a high level of fleet commonality, operational efficiency and reliability. The Airbus A321neo belongs to the latest generation of Airbus aircraft, offering high fuel efficiency, enhanced passenger comfort and reduced environmental impact. The new aircraft will be deployed on both domestic and international routes.

Gurugram, 2nd April 2026: Star Alliance has officially inducted ITA Airways as its newest member, marking the completion of the Italian carrier’s integration into the world’s largest airline alliance. ITA Airways marked its entry into the Alliance during a ceremony held at the Piazza di Spagna Lounge, Rome Fiumicino Airport Terminal 3. The ceremony was presided over by ITA Airways Chief Executive Officer and General Manager Joerg Eberhart, Star Alliance Chief Executive Officer Theo Panagiotoulias, and Lufthansa Group Chief Commercial Officer Dieter Vranckx, in the presence of media and institutional guests. Starting April 1, ITA Airways will be fully connected into the Alliance’s global network, linking its Rome Fiumicino hub and Milan Linate airport, served by 17 Star Alliance members collectively, with more than 1,150 destinations worldwide. Customers travelling across the network can now benefit from through check-in, reciprocal frequent flyer recognition and access to Star Alliance lounges, creating a more seamless customer experience, in and out of Italy. Celebrating the milestone, Star Alliance Chief Executive Officer Theo Panagiotoulias said: “On behalf of our members, I am delighted to welcome ITA Airways as the 26th member of Star Alliance. This is the result of a focused and collaborative integration effort. With ITA Airways on board, we not only expand our network to and from Italy, but also elevate the connected experience of our customers when travelling across multiple airlines, through access to the world’s largest network of airport lounges, more comprehensive loyalty benefits, and other benefits like baggage tracking – all designed to enhance the journey at every step.” Joerg Eberhart, CEO and General Manager of ITA Airways, said: “Joining Star Alliance marks a historic milestone for ITA Airways and a defining step in our growth. By becoming part of the world’s largest and most established global airline network, we significantly expand our international reach while offering our passengers a more seamless, consistent and high quality travel experience, with access to over 1,150 destinations worldwide, smoother connections, integrated services and a stronger premium proposition. At the same time, we enter Star Alliance bringing with us our distinctive Italian identity, enriching the Alliance and reinforcing ITA Airways’ role in connecting Italy with the world, combining global standards of excellence with the warmth and elegance that define the Italian way of flying.” ITA Airways’ induction into the Alliance has been mentored by the Lufthansa Group, and expert teams across the group airlines have facilitated an intense integration programme over the last several months. Dieter Vranckx, Chief Commercial Officer of Lufthansa Group, said: “The Star Alliance membership is only possible thanks to the strong commitment and close collaboration of dedicated teams at ITA Airways, Lufthansa Group and Star Alliance. We are pleased to introduce ITA Airways as fully fledged hub airline into the Lufthansa Group and into the Alliance, expanding options for travellers across Europe and the world. Together, ITA Airways and the Lufthansa Group, are unlocking a joint value proposition that will benefit our customers, our partners, and the Star Alliance ecosystem.” ITA Airways, which flies over 16 million customers every year, adds more than 350 daily flights to the Alliance network, supported by a strong domestic and regional footprint. The addition expands travel options across Italy and Europe, while improving connectivity between Southern Europe and key international markets. As part of its membership, eligible customers can enjoy priority services, lounge access across the Alliance network, and reciprocal frequent flyer programme recognition, including earning and redeeming miles. Star Alliance Gold customers will also have access to ITA Airways lounges in Rome, Milan and Catania. With the addition of ITA Airways, Star Alliance now comprises 26 member airlines, offering more than 17,500 daily flights across a global network spanning over 190 countries.