ITA Airways

ITA Airways is the national carrier of Italy, operating flights across Europe and between continents. The airline is renowned for its attention to detail, Italian style, and high level of onboard service. The carrier's current schedule also offers passengers numerous routes connecting major cities in East Asia, making travel across the region convenient and fast.

According to current flight data, travelers can take advantage of a wide network of routes connecting the city of Taipei with key tourist centers in neighboring countries. Among the available destinations, the following stand out:

• Japan: This destination features the highest number of flights. Connections are available to metropolises such as Osaka and Tokyo. For lovers of beach holidays and nature, flights to the island of Okinawa are offered. The schedule also includes the cities of Fukuoka, Sapporo, Nagoya, and Okayama.
• South Korea: Passengers are offered convenient flights to the country's capital, Seoul, as well as the bustling port city of Busan. Additionally, flights are available to the popular resort island city of Jeju City.
• Other Asian Destinations: For those planning a trip to Vietnam, flights to Da Nang are provided. The route list also includes Phuket in Thailand and Macau. Within the region, flights are operated to the cities of Kaohsiung and Shalu.

You can contact ITA Airways representatives through several convenient methods. The airline provides modern communication channels to resolve issues related to booking, check-in, or changing travel details. Passengers can use both digital services and telephone support.

For the most up-to-date information and booking management, it is recommended to visit the official airline resource.

Contact Information:

• Official Website: www.ita-airways.com
• International Customer Support: +39 06 85960020 (available for calls from abroad)
• Customer Support in Italy: 800 936090 (toll-free number within the country)
• Booking and Ticket Changes: +39 06 85960020 (select the appropriate option in the voice menu)
• Mobile App: "ITA Airways" (available for download on the App Store and Google Play)

Social Media:

The airline actively maintains pages on popular social networks, where it publishes news and special offers:

• Facebook
• X (Twitter)
• Instagram
• LinkedIn
• YouTube

Offices and Representatives:

• Main Hub: Service desks and ticket offices are located at Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO), primarily in Terminal 1 and Terminal 3.
• Secondary Hub: Representation is also located at Milan Linate Airport (LIN).
• Headquarters: Via Venti Settembre 97, 00187, Rome, Italy.

24/7 Support:

The airline's contact center operates 24/7, ensuring assistance to passengers at any time of day. Please note that phone numbers and service conditions may change, so it is recommended to verify details in the "Support" or "Contacts" section of the official website before calling.

Preparation for a flight with ITA Airways begins with packing your suitcases correctly. To avoid unnecessary hassle at the airport, it is important to familiarize yourself in advance with baggage allowances, which may vary depending on the selected fare and class of service.

Cabin Baggage

The airline allows passengers to take essential items into the cabin. Standard rules for hand luggage include:

• One piece of hand luggage: Weight must not exceed 8 kg, and dimensions must be within 55 x 35 x 25 cm (including handles, side pockets, and wheels).
• Personal Accessory: In addition to the main bag, you can bring a small item for free, such as a handbag, briefcase with a laptop, or backpack. This item must be placed under the seat in front of you.

It is important to remember that on crowded flights, staff may ask you to check your hand luggage into the hold (free of charge) if there is insufficient space in the overhead bins.

Checked Baggage

Free baggage allowances depend on the booking class and route. The general rule for suitcase size is that the sum of three dimensions (height + width + depth) must not exceed 158 cm.

• Economy Class: Depending on the fare, baggage may not be included (Light fare) or may include one piece weighing up to 23 kg.
• Premium Economy: Usually includes 2 pieces of baggage weighing up to 23 kg each.
• Business Class: Passengers are granted an increased allowance — 2 pieces weighing up to 32 kg each.

Excess Baggage and Fees

If your items exceed the established limits for weight, size, or number of pieces, an additional fee will be required. The cost depends on the destination and the time of payment:

• When paying online (via the website or app), rates for additional baggage are usually lower than when paying directly at the airport.
• Overweight items (e.g., a suitcase weighing between 23 and 32 kg in Economy Class) are charged at a fixed rate.
• Baggage weighing more than 32 kg is generally not accepted as standard checked baggage and must be processed as cargo.

Special Baggage

ITA Airways provides for the transport of non-standard items for outdoor enthusiasts and art lovers:

• Sports Equipment: Skis, snowboards, bicycles, or golf equipment may be included in the free baggage allowance if the fare permits and the weight does not exceed 23 kg. Otherwise, a separate fee applies. Bicycles must be packed in a hard case or box.
• Musical Instruments: Small instruments (e.g., a violin) can be carried in the cabin instead of hand luggage (if they fit within the dimensions). For larger instruments (cello), purchasing a separate seat in the cabin may be required. Bulky instruments must be checked in hard cases.

Prohibited Items and Restrictions

For safety reasons, there are strict rules regarding the contents of your bags:

• Prohibited in Cabin Baggage: Sharp and cutting objects, liquids in containers larger than 100 ml (except for baby food and medicines).
• Prohibited in Checked Baggage: Lithium batteries, portable chargers (Power Banks), and electronic cigarettes — these must be taken with you into the cabin.
• Flammable substances, explosives, and toxic liquids are completely prohibited for transport.

Tips for Efficient Packing

To ensure your journey goes smoothly, follow these recommendations:

• Weigh your suitcases at home to avoid stress and extra costs at the check-in counter.
• Always mark your baggage with a tag containing your name, phone number, and email address (both inside and outside the suitcase).
• Valuables, documents, money, and jewelry should be carried exclusively in hand luggage.
• If you are traveling with connections, verify whether your baggage will be checked through to the final destination.

Traveling with Animals

ITA Airways pays special attention to passengers traveling with pets. The airline strives to ensure safety and comfort for all animals on board, offering flexible solutions for their transport both in the aircraft cabin and in the cargo hold.

Transport Options

In the Cabin (Hand Luggage)

This option is suitable for small pets that can stay with their owner throughout the flight. Conditions include:

• Carrier Dimensions: The maximum dimensions of the container must not exceed 40x24x20 cm. The carrier must be soft or semi-rigid to fit comfortably under the seat.
• Maximum Weight: The total weight of the animal together with the carrier and accessories is limited to 8 kg.
• Allowed Animals: Cats, dogs, as well as ferrets and rabbits are most commonly accepted (depending on aircraft type).
• Comfort: The animal must be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down in a natural position inside the carrier.
• Limit: Usually, no more than one container per passenger is allowed (up to 5 animals of the same species may be in one container if the total weight does not exceed the limit, though this is rare in practice).

In the Baggage Hold (Checked Baggage)

For pets weighing more than the cabin limits, transport in a special heated section of the aircraft is provided.

• Cage Requirements: The container must be rigid (fiberglass or hard plastic), impact-resistant, and equipped with a secure lock. Wheels must be removed or blocked.
• Ventilation and Comfort: The cage must have ventilation openings on several sides and be spacious enough so the animal's head does not touch the ceiling.
• Weight: Animals weighing up to 75 kg (including the container) are accepted.
• Equipment: Inside, there must be bowls for water and food fixed in such a way that they can be filled from the outside, and the bottom must be covered with absorbent material.

As Cargo

In some cases, transport is only possible via the cargo terminal:

• When Required: If the animal's weight with the cage exceeds 75 kg or if the container dimensions do not fit through the hatch of the passenger aircraft's baggage hold.
• Special Requirements: Transport is arranged separately from the passenger's ticket, often through specialized agents.
• Procedure: Advance booking and compliance with strict customs formalities are required.

Necessary Documents

To check in for your flight, you will need to prepare a set of documents (originals):

• Veterinary Passport of international standard.
• Identification: The animal must have a readable microchip (or a tattoo made before 2011).
• Health Certificate: A clinical examination by a veterinarian performed shortly before departure.
• Vaccination: Valid rabies vaccination (administered at least 21 days before departure).
• Certificates: International flights may require specific sanitary certificates for the destination country.

Service Costs

Pet transport is not included in the free baggage allowance and is paid separately. Prices are indicative and depend on the route:

• In the Cabin: Costs vary from 60 to 100 Euros per flight segment (domestic and international flights) to higher amounts on intercontinental routes.
• In the Baggage Hold: Tariffs usually start from 90-100 Euros and can reach 200 Euros or more depending on the destination.

Preparation Tips

To reduce stress for your pet, follow these recommendations:

• Accustom the animal to the carrier or cage at home in advance.
• Feed the pet a light meal no later than 4 hours before departure, but ensure access to water.
• Place a favorite toy or an item with the owner's scent in the container.
• Consult a veterinarian about the need for sedatives (usually not recommended as they may affect blood pressure at altitude).

Restrictions

There are important exceptions to be aware of:

• Brachycephalic Breeds: Dogs and cats with flattened faces (Pugs, Bulldogs, Persian cats) are often not permitted for transport in the hold due to the risk of respiratory problems.
• Age: Puppies and kittens younger than 3 months are generally not accepted for transport.
• Guide Dogs: Transported in the cabin free of charge and without a cage (provided they have a muzzle and leash), but they must be notified in advance.
• Prohibited Breeds: Certain fighting dog breeds may be banned from entry into specific countries or from transport by the airline.

Important: Air transport rules and veterinary requirements of countries may change. We strongly recommend contacting the ITA Airways support center before purchasing a ticket to confirm the possibility of transporting your pet on a specific flight.

Loyalty Program

Volare is the innovative and fully digital loyalty program of ITA Airways, designed for modern travelers. It is based on the principle of maximum simplicity and personalization: there are no complicated mileage tables, and points are awarded for every Euro spent on tickets and services. The program ensures freedom of choice and flexibility, allowing you to use accumulated bonuses at any convenient time.

Clubs and Statuses

The Volare program includes four exclusive clubs. The more frequently you fly, the higher your status and the more privileges become available:

• Club Smart: The entry level, available immediately after registration. Members can accumulate points for every flight and use them to pay for future trips using the Cash&Points option.
• Club Plus: A status for active travelers. It grants priority on the waiting list, free seat selection (in the "Area Standard" zone), and an additional baggage allowance.
• Club Premium: A level of enhanced comfort. Includes access to business lounges, Fast Track security clearance at airports, and priority boarding.
• Club Executive: Elite status for the most valuable clients. Offers the maximum range of services: lounge access with the ability to invite guests, free transport of sports equipment (e.g., for golf), and a personal welcome by the crew.

Accumulating Points

The accrual system in Volare is tied to the commercial value of services (Revenue Based). This means you receive points not for distance, but for the amount spent:

• For Flights: The number of points awarded depends on your club status and can vary from 10 to 20 points for every Euro spent.
• For Additional Services: Purchasing seat selection, lounge access, or paying for excess baggage also tops up your balance.
• Through Partners: Points are awarded when using the services of the program's ground partners, including hotels, car rentals, and transfers.

Using Points

The main advantage of the program is the lack of restrictions on using accumulated funds:

• Cash&Points: You can pay for either the full cost of an airline ticket with points or just a part of it, paying the difference with money.
• Any Seat, Any Time: If a seat on the plane is available for purchase with money, it can also be purchased with points. There are no "blackout dates" or restrictions on flights during holidays.
• Upgrades and Services: Points can be spent on upgrading the class of service or adding services to your booking.

Alliance and Partners

ITA Airways is a full member of the global airline alliance SkyTeam. This membership gives Volare members access to a wide network of routes and allows them to enjoy privileges (such as lounge access and priority check-in) on flights of partner airlines worldwide.

Furthermore, the airline is currently in the process of strategic integration with the Lufthansa Group. This partnership aims to further develop the route network and improve service, which will prospectively provide passengers with even more opportunities for comfortable travel across Europe and other continents.

How to Join

Registration in the Volare program is free and takes just a few minutes on the official website or in the airline's mobile app. Immediately after creating an account, you receive a digital Club Smart member number and can start collecting points from your very first flight.

Onboard Comfort and Service

A journey with ITA Airways is an immersion into the atmosphere of Italian hospitality even before arriving at your destination. The airline prides itself on its status as an ambassador of the "Made in Italy" style, which is evident in everything: from cabin interiors designed by famous designers to the exquisite menus and crew uniforms. Passengers are offered a high level of service combining elegance and modern technology.

Classes of Service

The airline offers a flexible class system adapted for both short flights across Europe and long intercontinental voyages. Although a classic "First Class" is absent from the lineup, the level of comfort in premium segments will satisfy the most demanding travelers.

• Business Class: On long-haul flights, passengers enjoy seats that recline into a fully flat bed, direct aisle access, and maximum privacy. On medium and short-haul flights (Class Superior), a vacant adjacent seat is guaranteed for extra space and comfort. Guests are offered welcome drinks, travel kits from renowned brands, and access to business lounges.
• Premium Economy: The ideal balance of price and comfort for long flights. This is a separate cabin with seats featuring an increased recline angle and more legroom (up to 40% more space compared to Economy). Passengers also receive priority boarding and a dedicated baggage allowance.
• Economy Class: Modern ergonomic seats ensure comfort even during long flights. Travelers have access to USB ports for charging gadgets and individual entertainment screens (on wide-body aircraft).

Dining and Beverages

Gastronomy is the pride of ITA Airways. The onboard menu is developed with the participation of famous Italian chefs and changes according to the season, allowing passengers to taste traditional dishes from different regions of Italy.

Depending on the flight duration and class of service, guests are offered:

• Full hot meals or light Italian snacks.
• A wide selection of beverages, including premium Italian options selected by experts.
• In Business Class, meals are served on porcelain tableware, creating a restaurant atmosphere at an altitude of 10,000 meters.
• Special meals (dietary, religious including Halal, children's) are available upon prior request 24–48 hours before departure.

Entertainment and Connectivity

Long-haul liners are equipped with modern multimedia systems featuring high-resolution touch screens. The entertainment collection includes:

• New world cinema releases and classic Italian movies.
• Music playlists, games, and TV shows.
• Interactive flight maps.

Most modern aircraft in the fleet are equipped with Wi-Fi, allowing you to stay connected (various data packages are available for messaging or web surfing).

Special Services

The airline pays close attention to passengers requiring extra care:

• For Children: Young travelers are offered "Kids Kits" entertainment packs, a special children's menu, and a collection of cartoons. On long flights, a bassinet can be requested for infants.
• Assistance for Passengers with Reduced Mobility: ITA Airways provides full assistance at the airport and on board, including the provision of wheelchairs and help with boarding/disembarking. A request for such services must be made in advance.

The airline's main hub for this region is located in the city of Taipei, from where regular flights are operated to key destinations in East Asia. The route network is designed to ensure convenient connections between major metropolises and popular resorts in the region for passengers.

Booking and Flight Tips

Traveling with ITA Airways promises to be comfortable and full of Italian charm, but a little preparation beforehand can help make it even more pleasant and cost-effective. We have gathered key recommendations for you that will help save time and money, as well as avoid unnecessary stress at the airport.

When is the best time to book?

To get the best fares, try to plan your trip in advance. For intercontinental flights, the optimal time to buy tickets is 3–5 months before the departure date. For medium-haul flights, the best prices are often available 3–6 weeks in advance. Also, pay attention to seasonal sales, which the airline often conducts at the beginning of the year and before the start of the summer season.

How to find discounts and promotions?

• Subscribe to news: The surest way not to miss special offers is to subscribe to the airline's official newsletter. Promo codes and access to private sales are often sent directly to your email.
• Volare Program: Even if you are flying for the first time, registering for the loyalty program can give you advantages. Accumulated points can be used for partial ticket payment (Cash&Points option), which allows you to reduce the flight cost.
• Flexible Dates: When searching for tickets on the website, use the function to view prices for adjacent dates. Sometimes shifting the departure by one day can significantly reduce the cost.

Online Check-in

Save time at the airport by using the online check-in service. For most ITA Airways flights, check-in opens 48 hours before departure. This allows you to select your seat in the cabin in advance and receive your boarding pass electronically.

Please note: For flights to/from the USA, the check-in start time may differ (usually 24 hours) due to local authority requirements. If you are traveling with baggage, after checking in online, you will simply need to drop it off at the "Drop-off" counter at the airport.

Tips for Seat Selection

Choosing the right seat is the key to feeling good after your flight. During the booking or check-in process, study the cabin layout:

• Window Seat: Ideal for those who like to sleep during the flight and enjoy the views. You will not be disturbed by neighbors getting out into the aisle.
• Aisle Seat: The best choice for tall passengers and those who like to stretch their legs often during long flights.
• Front Section: Allows you to leave the aircraft faster after landing, which is critical for short connections.
• Over the Wing: Turbulence is felt least here, which is important for passengers prone to motion sickness.

Travel Insurance

When purchasing a ticket or separately, it is strongly recommended to take out travel insurance. ITA Airways cooperates with major insurance companies, offering policies that cover not only medical expenses but also risks associated with trip cancellation, flight delays, or loss of baggage. Given the unpredictability of international travel, the small cost of insurance can save significant funds in case of force majeure.

ITA Airways Mobile App

Install the official app on your smartphone — it is your personal travel assistant. Key features:

• Everything at hand: Store boarding passes in your digital wallet so you don't have to print them.
• Flight Status: Receive real-time notifications about delays, gate changes, or baggage claim.
• Manage Booking: Easily change details, add extra baggage, or select meals in a few clicks.
• Access to Press: A digital library of newspapers and magazines is often available in the app for reading on board.

History and Development of the Airline

ITA Airways (Italia Trasporto Aereo) is a young but ambitious player in the global aviation arena. Although the company began operations quite recently, it is the heir to Italy's rich aviation traditions, taking the baton from its predecessor, the legendary Alitalia. The carrier's history is a chronicle of rapid renewal, strategic decisions, and the return of the Italian flag to the skies.

Foundation and Launch

The official start date for flights is considered to be October 15, 2021. On this day, early in the morning, the new company's first aircraft took off from Milan Linate Airport. This event was preceded by a complex process of reorganizing Italy's national aviation sector. The European Commission demanded "economic discontinuity," which meant creating an entirely new legal entity not liable for the debts of the old Alitalia. ITA Airways acquired the predecessor's brand but made the bold decision not to use it as the primary one, opting instead to create a new, vibrant identity.

Symbol of Change: New Livery

One of the company's first loud statements was the presentation of a unique livery. The aircraft were painted in a deep blue (Blue Savoy) — the traditional color of Italy's national sports teams. The tricolor was placed on the tail, and the logos were executed in gold and white. This step symbolized a break with the past and an aspiration to become a "true ambassador of Italy in the world."

Fleet Evolution

At the start of operations, the fleet consisted primarily of aircraft inherited from the previous carrier. However, management immediately set a course for large-scale modernization and unification of the fleet, relying on products from the Airbus consortium.

• In the shortest possible time, the newest A220 liners were ordered for regional routes and A320neo for medium-haul flights.
• The flagships of the long-haul fleet became the modern and eco-friendly Airbus A350-900 and A330neo, which allowed for significantly improved passenger comfort and reduced CO2 emissions.

Strategic Partnership and Expansion

An important milestone in the company's history was joining the global alliance SkyTeam almost immediately after starting flights, which allowed convenient connections to be maintained for passengers worldwide. In parallel, a search was underway for a strong strategic partner to ensure financial stability and growth.

A key event of recent years was the agreement with the Lufthansa Group. Joining one of Europe's largest aviation groups opened new perspectives for ITA Airways: integration into transatlantic joint ventures, optimization of procurement, and access to the German consortium's global sales network.

Route Network Development

Starting with a basic network of domestic and European routes, the airline quickly restored its presence on key intercontinental destinations. The priority became flights to North and South America (New York, Miami, Buenos Aires), where a large Italian diaspora historically resides. Subsequently, the network was expanded to the East, including direct flights to Japan and other Asian countries, strengthening the carrier's status as a global player.

Innovation and Digitalization

Since its founding, ITA Airways has bet on digital technologies. The proprietary loyalty program Volare was launched, built on principles of maximum flexibility and personalization, unlike old mileage systems. The company is actively implementing biometric technologies at its hubs and developing mobile services, striving to make the passenger experience seamless and modern.