Italian carrier ITA Airways plans to raise ticket prices by up to 10% this year as soaring jet fuel costs linked to the Middle East conflict continue to pressure global airlines.
ITA Airways has announced plans to increase ticket prices by between 5% and 10% this year as airlines worldwide struggle with sharply rising fuel costs caused by the ongoing conflict involving Iran, Israel and the United States.
Speaking in Rome, ITA Airways chief executive Joerg Eberhart said the airline currently has no plans to reduce flights despite the pressure from soaring jet fuel prices. According to the airline, around 80% of its fuel needs for the rest of 2026 have already been protected through hedging measures.
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Eberhart said jet fuel prices have doubled compared to levels before the Middle East crisis escalated. Fuel now accounts for nearly 30% of the airline’s total operating costs, making it one of the company’s biggest financial challenges.
He warned that without fuel hedging, ticket prices would need to rise by nearly 30%, something the airline believes passengers may not easily accept.
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Airlines across Europe and Asia have already started responding to the worsening situation by increasing fares, introducing fuel surcharges, revising schedules and reassessing financial projections. Major air routes through the Middle East have also faced disruptions due to regional instability and security concerns.
Despite these challenges, ITA Airways said it intends to maintain its current flight network and continue expanding long-haul operations. The airline is particularly focusing on Asian markets, where travel demand remains strong even as Middle Eastern routes face uncertainty.
The company is also accelerating efforts to modernise its fleet with newer aircraft designed to consume less fuel. Officials believe improving fuel efficiency will help offset rising operational expenses over the long term.
Lufthansa stake increase still undecided
Lufthansa Group currently owns 41% of ITA Airways, while the remaining stake is held by Italy’s Economy Ministry. Under the agreement signed with Rome, Lufthansa has the option to increase its stake to 90% by June 2026.
When asked about the timeline for the move, Eberhart said the decision rests entirely with Lufthansa. However, he expressed hope that the German aviation group would move ahead with the plan, as deeper integration could strengthen ITA Airways’ global position.
The CEO said ITA Airways could eventually become the Lufthansa Group’s main specialist for South American routes, noting that the Italian carrier already operates more services to the region than the rest of the Lufthansa network combined.
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Flights to Tel Aviv, Riyadh and Dubai remain suspended
ITA Airways has suspended flights to Tel Aviv, Riyadh and Dubai until at least the end of the month amid continuing regional tensions.
The airline estimates it could lose nearly 10 million euros if services to all three destinations remain suspended for the entire year.
Even so, company executives said there are currently no plans to revise ITA Airways’ long-term strategy, arguing that most additional fuel-related expenses can still be managed through higher ticket prices and hedging protections.
Published: 07 May 2026, 07:44 am IST
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