ITA Airways, the successor to Alitalia as Italy’s national carrier, has stated that MSC, a Swiss-Italian shipping corporation, and Lufthansa, have shown an interest in purchasing a controlling stake in the state-owned company.
MSC Group, which encompasses container shipping and logistics operations in addition to cruises, said late Monday in a statement that the merger will exploit efficiencies in both passenger and cargo, adding that Lufthansa has already expressed interest.
MSC and Lufthansa have both sought a 90-day exclusivity period to review ITA Airways’ financial data, during which time the state-owned airline will be unable to deal with other companies.
When ITA was launched in October of last year, its chairman Alfredo Altavilla told reporters that the company would seek a partnership with a larger airline by the end of 2022 since it is too small to compete on its own.
Altavilla also stated that he recognised synergies with freight, one of the most profitable areas of the business.
ITA Airways has been seeking an industrial partner, and a successful end to the MSC-Lufthansa business might assure the airline’s future as it replaces the faltering Alitalia.
