Aeroporti di Puglia has opened a market test for scheduled passenger flights from Taranto-Grottaglie to Rome and Milan-Linate, with an initial plan for 12 weekly frequencies across the two routes. The move is aimed at expanding the role of Marcello Arlotta airport beyond its established cargo, industrial and aerospace profile, while keeping the project at the proposal stage for now.
Airlines interested in operating the services have until 31 December 2026 to submit expressions of interest. Each proposal must cover frequencies, aircraft type, schedules, commercial model and a business plan demonstrating economic viability, in line with the market-sounding approach chosen by the operator.
The planned timings are intended to support same-day return travel, a format likely aimed at business passengers in the Taranto area and wider Apulia. No carrier commitment has been confirmed, and the routes will depend on whether airlines judge the operation sustainable under market conditions. The process is therefore a competitive sounding rather than a launch decision, with the final outcome still open.