Emirates and ITA Airways Strengthen Ties with Codeshare Agreement

Emirates and ITA Airways sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Berlin, aiming to transform their interline agreement into a full-fledged codeshare partnership, enhancing travel options between Dubai, Italy, and further afield.

 

In a significant development for international air travel, Emirates and ITA Airways have announced a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to elevate their partnership to a comprehensive codeshare agreement. This landmark agreement, signed in Berlin, promises to enrich travel possibilities for passengers flying between Dubai and Italy, as well as to other destinations.

The newly signed MoU lays the groundwork for a strengthened alliance between the two carriers. It aims to provide travelers with seamless one-stop connections to major cities throughout Italy and Europe via ITA Airways and to facilitate smoother journeys across the Emirates network from Dubai, featuring optimal routes, schedules, and connectivity.

Emirates' Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer, Adnan Kazim, emphasized the strategic importance of enhancing partnerships and expanding Emirates' presence in crucial markets like Europe. "Collaborating with ITA Airways will enhance our network in Italy and important European destinations. We anticipate activating our codeshare partnership shortly, offering unparalleled access to our combined networks," Kazim stated.

Antonino Turicchi, Chairman of ITA Airways, echoed the enthusiasm for the partnership, highlighting its role in ITA Airways' growth strategy and its significance in providing direct access to passengers benefiting from the connectivity between Rome Fiumicino and Dubai. "This codeshare agreement, our 35th, is a testament to our rapid growth and commitment to enhancing passenger connectivity," Turicchi noted.

The anticipated codeshare will enable Emirates passengers to effortlessly reach various Italian domestic locations from Rome, including sought-after cities like Florence and Palermo, as well as European destinations such as Tirana and Sofia. ITA Airways' customers will gain access to a broader array of options, connecting through Dubai to Emirates' extensive global network.

Furthermore, the agreement proposes reciprocal loyalty benefits for members of both airlines' frequent flyer programs in the future. The activation of the codeshare flights awaits necessary governmental and regulatory approvals, after which they will gradually become available to customers through various booking channels.

Since initiating service to Italy in 1992, Emirates has consistently expanded its operations, now offering 41 weekly flights to four Italian cities using a mix of Boeing 777s and Airbus A380s. This codeshare marks a significant milestone in Emirates' ongoing commitment to enhancing global connectivity and service excellence.