Alitalia and Etihad Airways have today unveiled a strategic plan to return the struggling Italian carrier to profit by 2017.
Alitalia said it will introduce new routes, product and service standards, cost management strategy and branding.
The three-year plan will firstly focus on debt and cost reduction and productivity improvements this year. Next year, it is hoped Alitalia will break even before returning to profit in 2017.
Luca di Montezemolo said: “The energies, passion and expertise I have experienced at Alitalia in recent weeks do not leave any doubt that the airline we’re unveiling today will become once again a premium Italian airline recognised worldwide. This is why I believe the people in Alitalia are a pillar of the history we’re about to write.”
In November, the European Commission approved Etihad’s 49 per cent stake in Alitalia in a deal worth around €560 million.
Alitalia said it will look to forge closer links with fellow Etihad partner Air Berlin and increase flights from Catania, Rome, Milan, Venice and Bologna to Abu Dhabi to take advantage of Etihad's international network.
James Hogan, Etihad's CEO, said today: "We wouldn't have invested in Alitalia if we hadn't thought the industrial plan would be successful. I've been told not to say it but I do believe Alitalia can be the sexiest brand in Europe in aviation."