ITA Airways Launches Nonstop Flight to Jeddah

ITA Airways Expands Network with Rome-Jeddah Route

Jeddah/Rome, August 2, 2024 – ITA Airways has launched a new direct flight connecting Rome Fiumicino to Jeddah, marking its second destination in Saudi Arabia for the 2024 Summer Season. This new route operates three times a week using the state-of-the-art Airbus A321neo, enhancing connectivity between the two cities.

“We are delighted to inaugurate our first nonstop flight between Jeddah and Rome, strengthening our presence in Saudi Arabia, a rapidly growing market,” said Emiliana Limosani, Chief Commercial Officer of ITA Airways and CEO of Volare.

Inaugural Flight and Ceremonial Welcome

The inaugural flight from Rome landed at King Abdulaziz International Airport at 9:10 p.m. local time, greeted by a water arch salute. A ribbon-cutting ceremony at Jeddah International Airport marked the occasion, attended by notable dignitaries including Irene Buongiorno, Vice Consul General of Italy in Jeddah, and Rashed Al-Shammari, Vice President of Aviation Development at Air Connectivity Program.

“This new opening follows the launch of the nonstop connection to Riyadh in June and is part of our ongoing summer network expansion, which boasts excellent booking results,” added Limosani.

Flight Schedule and Aircraft Details

Flight Schedule:

• Jeddah to Rome: Departs at 3:30 a.m. (local time) on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, arriving in Rome at 7:00 a.m. the following morning.
• Rome to Jeddah: Departs at 3:05 p.m. (local time) on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, arriving in Jeddah at 9:10 p.m. local time.

Aircraft Details:

The A321neo, utilized for this route, is the largest aircraft in the Airbus A320neo family, offering exceptional range and performance. It features three cabins: Business Class (12 seats), Premium Economy (12 seats), and Economy (141 seats, including 12 Comfort Economy seats). Designed by Walter de Silva, the cabin interiors reflect Italian elegance and style.

“The new ITA Airways intercontinental route will boost the promotion of our beloved country into Saudi Arabia. Likewise, it is with great pleasure to be part of this unique opportunity for my fellow Italians to be able to discover the kingdom,” said Irene Buongiorno.

Enhancing Air Connectivity

This new route underscores ITA Airways' commitment to expanding its network and enhancing commercial and cultural exchanges between Italy and Saudi Arabia. The introduction of the Rome-Jeddah flight brings ITA Airways' total destinations to 57 for the current summer season, including 16 domestic, 26 international, and 15 intercontinental routes.

“Travelers from ITA Airways’ network in Italy, Europe, and the Americas will enjoy a more seamless journey to explore the untapped potential of Jeddah,” noted Mazin Johar, CEO of Jeddah Airports (JEDCO).

With this new direct connection, ITA Airways continues to strengthen its global presence, offering passengers efficient and comfortable travel options while fostering international cooperation and tourism growth.