In response to recent speculation, Air France-KLM has confirmed it is not pursuing a bid for the troubled Italian carrier Alitalia.
The French-Dutch airline group issued a clear statement: “The Air France-KLM group would like to confirm that it has taken no part in the process launched by the Italian authorities to take over Alitalia. As such, the group has not had access to any confidential information. Air France-KLM denies having made an offer to take over Alitalia.”
Separately, Lufthansa’s CEO Carsten Spohr has suggested that any involvement by his airline would require substantial restructuring at Alitalia to make the business viable.
Alitalia entered bankruptcy proceedings in May 2017 after employees rejected proposals to reduce jobs and cut salaries—measures that were intended to improve the airline’s financial position.
Previously, Abu Dhabi–based Etihad Airways held a 49 percent stake in Alitalia, but the Gulf carrier has said it will not invest further without agreement and support from all key stakeholders.
The situation leaves Alitalia’s future uncertain. With major European carriers publicly distancing themselves from a takeover, the Italian authorities and the airline’s creditors face continued pressure to find a sustainable solution. Any potential buyer would likely demand a thorough overhaul of routes, staffing and costs to restore profitability.
For now, Air France-KLM’s denial removes one of the more prominent names from the list of potential rescuers, while comments from Lufthansa underscore how difficult a turnaround could be. Stakeholders, including the Italian government, creditors and existing shareholders, remain engaged in discussions about next steps as Alitalia navigates the bankruptcy process and seeks a path to stabilization.