Lufthansa Group has not confirmed reports of a scheduled meeting between CEO Carsten Spohr and Italy’s Minister of Economy and Finance Giancarlo Giorgetti regarding the acquisition of ITA Airways amidst alleged negotiations.
A source indicated that the Italian ministry paused the deal because Lufthansa sought to pay less than initially agreed, although Lufthansa maintains it is adhering to the original contract.
A Lufthansa spokesperson stated that the airline has met the European Commission’s deadline for signing a necessary remedy package aimed at finalizing the 2023 agreement for a 41pc stake in ITA Airways.
Reports suggest concerns around a clause related to a payment after ITA Airways’ capital increase, with Lufthansa possibly seeking to reduce a planned payment of EUR 603m due to a perceived decline in the airline’s value.
