ITA Airways, Italy’s new national airline, inherited the legacy of Alitalia on October 15, 2021, taking over with a smaller fleet and reduced staff. The transition was met with mixed emotions, with some anticipating little change, while others were hopeful for a fresh start.
This article delves into the initial experiences of flying with ITA Airways, exploring the similarities and differences compared to its predecessor.
A Familiar Face with a New Flair
The launch of ITA Airways brought about a palpable sense of anticipation, even amidst the familiar surroundings. While the Alitalia check-in desks remained, a new bold logo adorned the backdrop – a striking trio of green, white, and red stripes, representing the Italian flag.
Though the initial check-in process bore resemblance to Alitalia’s familiar procedures, the staff at Venice airport assured me that nothing had fundamentally changed.
However, behind the scenes, ITA Airways had already taken bold steps. The airline acquired the Alitalia brand name, but opted to retain their own unique identity, ITA, with a distinctive blue livery.
This deliberate move signifies the departure from Alitalia’s legacy, paving the way for a new era of Italian aviation.
Unveiling the Heart of ITA: Customer Service Takes Center Stage
Despite the initial lack of noticeable changes in the physical aspects of the journey, a distinct shift was palpable in the customer service.
On my second flight with ITA Airways, a moment of anxiety arising from a wheezing aircraft noise was met with extraordinary reassurance from an off-duty flight attendant. The attentive and personalized care was truly remarkable.
This enhanced customer service is a deliberate strategy by ITA Airways, as the airline plans to reward its staff based on customer satisfaction, fostering a culture of exemplary service.
A Glimpse into the Future: Embracing Italian Excellence
Beyond the exceptional customer service, ITA Airways is also prioritizing a uniquely Italian experience.
From the delicious Italian cookies offered to economy passengers on short-haul flights to the lavish spread of centopercento Italian cuisine served in business class, the airline is immersing its passengers in genuine Italian flavors.
This commitment extends beyond the culinary experience. ITA Airways is partnering with major Italian brands to reimagine every aspect of the journey, from maintenance vehicles to airport lounge seating, ensuring a fully immersive Italian experience.
Challenges and Opportunities: ITA’s Journey Ahead
While ITA Airways offers a promising start, the airline is not without its challenges.
The website, while undergoing improvement, still exhibits some technical kinks, requiring further refinement. The new frequent flier program, Volare, needs further integration to ensure a seamless user experience.
However, these challenges present opportunities for growth and improvement. With determined efforts to refine its online presence and ensure smooth integration of its new programs, ITA Airways has the potential to transform the air travel experience.
A New Dawn for Italian Aviation: A Call to Embrace the Future
ITA Airways has embarked on a bold and exciting journey, presenting a fresh perspective on air travel. With its commitment to exceptional customer service, authentic Italian experiences, and continuous improvement, the airline has the potential to redefine the Italian aviation landscape.
As ITA Airways continues to refine its services and expand its fleet, the sky is the limit for this ambitious airline. Let us embrace the new era of Italian aviation and look forward to the exciting possibilities that lie ahead.
In bocca al lupo, ITA!
