ITA Airways will resume direct non-stop flights between Rome Fiumicino (FCO) and Caracas Simón Bolívar (CCS) in October 2026, marking its return to the Venezuelan market. The German carrier Lufthansa Group, which holds a 90% stake in ITA, secured exclusive rights for this route within its network, leveraging Rome as a strategic hub for South Atlantic traffic. CEO Jörg Eberhart confirmed the launch window after negotiating with the Venezuelan ambassador, citing the route as highly lucrative despite Venezuela’s operational challenges. The service will operate with modern aircraft, likely the Airbus A321neo XLR, strengthening Star Alliance connectivity in South America. This new route revives a previously operated line and reflects Lufthansa’s confidence in the South Atlantic despite regional volatility.