AeroItalia to Sell AeroItalia Regional by End of 2025

AeroItalia Plans to Divest Aeroitalia Regional by End of 2025

AeroItalia (XZ, Rome Fiumicino) has announced its intention to sell its dormant and bankrupt subsidiary, Aeroitalia Regional, by the end of 2025. CEO Gaetano Intrieri confirmed this strategy in an interview with ch-aviation, emphasizing that the sale will follow the completion of a comprehensive restructuring process scheduled for the regional unit, formerly operating under the name AirConnect, by the end of this year.

Restructuring and Sale Prospects

The restructuring effort aims to resolve the financial and operational difficulties that have plagued Aeroitalia Regional, positioning the subsidiary for a potential sale within a highly competitive regional aviation market. Intrieri revealed that four interested parties have come forward, though no final decision will be made until the restructuring is fully completed. He also addressed recent reports in the Italian media suggesting that start-up carrier Aerolinee Siciliane, based in Catania, had acquired Aeroitalia Regional to accelerate its own market entry and circumvent certification requirements. Intrieri clarified that no binding offer has been received from Aerolinee Siciliane.

Fleet Status and Operational Challenges

Aeroitalia Regional previously operated two ATR72-600 aircraft, both of which have since been reassigned to AeroItalia’s mainline operations. Currently, the regional subsidiary has no active aircraft, reflecting its dormant status amid ongoing restructuring efforts. Compounding these challenges, the Romanian Civil Aeronautical Authority suspended Aeroitalia Regional’s Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC) on November 7, 2024. Although the reasons for the suspension have not been publicly disclosed, the certificate remains suspended rather than revoked, adding complexity to the subsidiary’s recovery and sale prospects.

Bankruptcy Proceedings and Market Environment

In January 2025, Aeroitalia Regional entered bankruptcy reorganisation proceedings after failing to meet its debt obligations. This process is intended to stabilize the company’s financial and operational footing, thereby enhancing its appeal to prospective buyers. Nevertheless, the sale faces significant obstacles, including intense competition within the regional aviation sector and the necessity of securing firm buyer commitments. The response of competitors to the potential sale remains uncertain and will likely be influenced by broader market dynamics.

AeroItalia’s decision to divest its regional arm by the end of 2025 reflects a strategic effort to streamline its operations and adapt to shifting market conditions. The success of this initiative will depend on the effective completion of restructuring measures and the ability to navigate the regulatory and competitive challenges ahead.