ITA Airways has taken a significant leap in expanding its global connectivity with the inauguration of its new nonstop flight between Chicago O’Hare and Rome Fiumicino. The maiden voyage, operated on the cutting-edge Airbus A330neo, marks a pivotal moment in ITA Airways’ journey towards enhancing air travel options between the United States and Italy.
To commemorate this milestone, a ribbon-cutting ceremony was held at the departure gate of Chicago O’Hare International Airport, attended by key dignitaries including Emiliana Limosani, ITA Airways Chief Commercial Officer; CEO Volare; Thomas Botzios, Consul General of Italy in Chicago; and Amber Ritter, Managing Deputy Commissioner and Chief Commercial Officer for the Chicago Department of Aviation.
Emiliana Limosani expressed pride in launching the new Chicago-Rome route, which is the seventh North American destination for ITA Airways. This expansion aligns with the company’s goal of strengthening its presence in the United States, catering to both leisure and business travelers while connecting them seamlessly to Europe and the Mediterranean via Rome Fiumicino.
Consul General Thomas Botzios hailed the new route as a bridge between Italy and the American Midwest, fostering closer ties between the two regions. He highlighted the significance of this connection for the Italian community and business entities in the Midwest, emphasizing the cultural and economic benefits it brings.
Abu Dhabi [UAE], His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, has approved the new Tourism Strategy 2030 for the emirate. Spearheaded by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), the ambitious blueprint signals a new era of expansion and strategic development in the travel and tourism sector.
Chicago Department of Aviation Commissioner Jamie L Rhee expressed gratitude to ITA Airways for investing in the Chicago market, emphasizing O’Hare’s status as a gateway to Italy and other international destinations. This new route is expected to enrich the cultural exchange and tourism between Chicago and Rome.Rich Gamble, Interim President and CEO of Choose Chicago, lauded the launch of ITA Airways’ direct service to Rome, anticipating increased tourism from Italy and Europe to Chicago, a world-class destination known for its rich cultural heritage.
In its current Summer 2024 schedule, the Chicago-Rome route will operate six weekly flights initially, increasing to seven in June. This expansion, coupled with new intercontinental routes like Toronto-Rome, reflects ITA Airways’ commitment to offering diverse travel options and strengthening its global network.
ITA Airways’ strategic focus on intercontinental expansion is evident with plans to launch nonstop flights to various destinations across North America, Africa, and the Middle East, bolstering its position as a premier international carrier. The airline’s dedication to providing an authentic Italian experience and its emphasis on sustainability through advanced aircraft technology underscore its commitment to excellence in aviation.
