ITA Airways launches first-ever direct Rome – Houston route, starting May 2026

ROME – ITA Airways has opened ticket sales for a new intercontinental route connecting Rome Fiumicino and Houston, marking the first direct air link between the two cities. The service will begin on 1 May 2026 and represents a key addition to the carrier’s Summer 2026 schedule.

The route will initially operate three times per week throughout May before increasing to five weekly frequencies from June to October 2026. ITA Airways will deploy the Airbus A330-900 on the route, a next-generation aircraft known for its efficiency, advanced digital systems and modern cabin design.

Schedule for Summer 2026

Rome Fiumicino → Houston

• 1–31 May: Wednesday, Friday, Sunday – dep. 10:20, arr. 15:40
• 1 June–24 October: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday

Houston → Rome Fiumicino

• 1–31 May: Wednesday, Friday, Sunday – dep. 18:10, arr. 11:50 (+1)
• 1 June–24 October: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday

Strengthening the U.S. footprint

This launch marks ITA Airways’ ninth North American destination and further expands the airline’s presence in a strategic long-haul market. The carrier already operates direct services to New York, Boston, Miami, Los Angeles, San Francisco and Washington D.C., as well as Chicago and Toronto during the summer season.

The Rome – Houston connection will also support domestic connectivity. From Rome Fiumicino, ITA Airways offers links to 16 Italian airports, alongside 12 additional airports served from Milan Linate. The airline positions itself as a gateway to Italy for U.S. travellers, highlighting Italian culture, hospitality and design throughout its onboard experience.

The expansion also aligns with the carrier’s broader international strategy. ITA Airways is preparing to join Star Alliance in 2026 as part of its integration into the Lufthansa Group, enabling deeper global connectivity.

Strategic importance for both cities

Joerg Eberhart, CEO and General Manager of ITA Airways, emphasized the significance of the new route. “We are proud to announce that for the first time in history Rome and Houston will be connected with a direct flight… This is our ninth North American destination and will further enrich the airline’s intercontinental network,” he said. “The extensive offer from Rome allows us to be the reference carrier from the U.S. to Italy and, via Rome, to Europe and the Mediterranean.”

Houston city officials also highlighted the economic and cultural impact of the new connection. Mayor John Whitmire said: “The first ever route between Houston and Rome will strengthen our business, diplomatic and cultural ties with Italy.”

Jim Szczesniak, Director of Aviation for Houston Airports, added: “Nonstop service to Rome is a defining moment for Houston… It expands Houston’s presence in Europe and proves that disciplined, strategic growth delivers measurable economic impact.”

Tilman J. Fertitta, U.S. Ambassador to Italy and San Marino, noted the broader diplomatic value. “It strengthens the economic links that drive mutual understanding and shared prosperity.”

The Rome – Houston service will enhance travel options for both business and leisure passengers, while supporting strong ties between Italy, Texas and the wider Gulf Coast region. With a modern aircraft, increased frequencies and broad onward connectivity, the launch positions ITA Airways for further growth in North America.

The article ITA Airways launches first-ever direct Rome – Houston route, starting May 2026 first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.

The post ITA Airways launches first-ever direct Rome – Houston route, starting May 2026 appeared first on Travel Daily News