In a major decision by the European Commission, Easyjet has been given the green light for a major expansion in Italy. As part of the remedies of the transaction between ITA Airways and Lufthansa, Easyjet will be able to station new aircraft at the key airports of Milan-Linate and Rome-Fiumicino from spring 2025.
This decision underlines the central role of the British airline in the Italian market and will increase the number of aircraft based in Italy to a total of 38. This represents a clear expansion of air connections and will provide new jobs and greater competitiveness.
The details of the decision
The European Commission's approval will allow Easyjet to base a total of eight aircraft at Italy's two main airports: five at Milan Linate and three at Rome Fiumicino. This will not only increase the airline's fleet in Italy, but will also contribute to the creation of around 300 jobs at the two sites. The airline is confident that this move will increase its market share in Italy, offering customers a wider choice of destinations and affordable fares.
Lorenzo Lagorio, Easyjet's Country Manager in Italy, expressed his pride and emphasised the company's role in "democratising air transport". The airline has already carried more than 210 million passengers to and from Italy, supporting access to Europe for the Italian population. By stationing new aircraft at the key transport hubs of Milan-Linate and Rome-Fiumicino, Easyjet will expand its service and offer Italian customers additional options and connections.
Insights into the strategic importance
The decision to grant Easyjet access to the airport slots at Linate and Fiumicino is a strategic move to keep the aviation market in Italy competitive. In recent years, the Italian aviation industry has proven challenging, especially with competition from established and new market players. Easyjet's expansion in Milan and Rome will not only offer travelers more choice, but will also help keep prices stable and increase service standards.
Attention is also being paid to the economic and social impact: the creation of around 300 new jobs at the two airports is a positive boost for the local economy. Easyjet's investments in expanding its capacity underline the airline's commitment to long-term growth and economic stability.
The importance of Milan and Rome for Easyjet
Milan Malpensa remains the heart of Easyjet's European network and the opening of new routes at Milan Linate and Rome Fiumicino will reinforce this role. The importance of Milan as a key market is underlined by the fact that the airline recently celebrated the milestone of 100 million passengers at Malpensa Airport - an achievement that reflects the confidence travelers place in the airline.
From spring 2025, Easyjet will be present in Italy with a fleet of 38 aircraft, including Milan-Malpensa, Milan-Linate, Rome-Fiumicino and Naples. In total, 20 Italian airports will be served by the airline, expanding its reach and service to millions of passengers every year.
A perspective for the future
Easyjet's expansion in Italy is more than just a fleet extension. It is a clear sign of the airline's strategy to consolidate its position in one of the most important European aviation markets. Kenton Jarvis, CFO and future CEO of Easyjet, highlighted that this measure will help keep the Italian market competitive. He stressed that the new connections will offer customers more choice and improve access to low-cost flights.
With the creation of new jobs and an increased market presence, Easyjet shows that it is ready to continue to position itself as a major player in the Italian aviation market. For travelers, this means more options, more competitive prices and an expanded network of connections that facilitates access to Europe.
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