The first A350-900 aircraft headed for ITA Airways has taken its inaugural flight in the flag carrier’s blue livery, ahead of entering service in June.
The aircraft has begun preparatory flights at Airbus’ headquarters in Toulouse, and is set to serve long-haul routes to Los Angeles, Buenos Aires, Sao Paulo and Tokyo this summer – although the last of these could be affected by disruption as a result of Russian airspace currently being closed.
ITA’s first A350 – which had originally been destined for China’s HNA Group – has been named after Italian former professional footballer and manager Marcello Lippi, and is being leased from Air Lease Corporation.
ITA Airways began flights in October 2021 following the closure of its predecessor Alitalia, and recently unveiled its Volare loyalty programme, alongside the opening of a new lounge at Rome Fuimicino airport.
Uncertainty remains over the long-term ownership of the carrier – the Italian government is keen to sell a majority stake in the airline, with suitors including a consortium formed of the Lufthansa Group and Italian cruise line MSC.