ITA Airways has launched new food and wine menus on its long-haul intercontinental flights.
A journey through the flavours of Italy's regions
Showcasing the excellence of Italy’s culinary and wine heritage, for an increasingly distinctive travel experience, the main new feature is the new Business Class menu, available on all intercontinental flights departing from Rome Fiumicino throughout the summer season. Designed to combine quality, presentation and seasonal ingredients, the new menu features carefully selected ingredients and draws inspiration from the distinct regional characteristics of Italy’s regions, offering a journey through their flavours and traditions.
Traditional first and main courses
The meal begins with a Panzanella inspired by Tuscan tradition, accompanied by an appetiser of octopus and potatoes that evokes the flavours of Campania’s cuisine. Among the first courses, burrata-stuffed Scrigni pay homage to Puglia, while Fregola with pistachios, prawns and lemon celebrates the aromas and ingredients of the Mediterranean, with nods to Sardinia and Sicily. Among the main courses, two great classics of the Lazio tradition stand out: Saltimbocca alla Romana and Cuttlefish with Peas, while the journey concludes with a Ricotta and Sour Cherry dessert, a tribute to the most authentic flavours of the Lazio region.
A new Franciacorta wine
The recipes offer a contemporary reinterpretation of Italy’s culinary heritage, creating an authentic “journey within a journey” to discover the flavours, traditions and ingredients that define Italy, where innovation and tradition come together in a unique culinary experience. The Business Class experience is further enhanced by the introduction of Franciacorta Bellavista Alma Assemblage, which expands the selection of Italian specialities on offer on board. To round off the selection of bread and I&P Grand Cru Monte Freddo-Caninese extra virgin olive oil will become a permanent feature of the catering, following the positive feedback received during last year’s trial phase.
Ice cream in Premium Economy and Economy Class
There are also new developments for Premium Economy and Economy Class passengers, who will be able to enjoy a new addition designed to make their journey even more pleasant: the introduction of ice cream, which will be served during the in-flight service. The 2026 summer season represents a phase of further consolidation and development of ITA Airways’ network, with a total of 72 domestic, international and intercontinental routes, and a schedule tailored to meet summer leisure demand, business travel and inbound traffic to Italy.
New routes and increased frequencies
Among the key new developments is the new route from Houston to Rome, the first direct flight between the two cities, which has recently been increased to five weekly flights. The summer network also includes new European and Mediterranean destinations such as Málaga, Valencia, Marseille, Mykonos, Alicante and Trapani, alongside seasonal routes to major tourist destinations and enhanced connections to southern Italy and the islands, confirming ITA Airways’ role in promoting Italy as a global destination. At the same time, the airline is continuing its expansion into Asia and the Middle East, with an increase in frequencies to Bangkok and Delhi and the resumption of flights to Tel Aviv, operated by Airbus A321neo aircraft and integrated into the network via the Rome Fiumicino hub.
