ITA Airways launches Self-Supply jet fuel procurement at Rome Fiumicino

ITA Airways announced yesterday that it has introduced a new Self-Supply fuel procurement (purchasing) model at its Rome Fiumicino hub, signalling a strategic shift in how it manages its Jet Fuel supply chain for flight operations.

ITA Airways Self-Supply fuel procurement at Rome Fiumicino

By rolling out this initiative, ITA Airways says it is the first airline in Italy to adopt this innovative approach, taking on an active role as a Fuel Trader (Fuel Trader) and triggering a broader change in the traditional aviation fuel procurement value chain, with meaningful implications for the wider Italian air transport sector.

A new role recognised by Italian customs authorities

This recognition, granted by Italy’s customs authorities, places ITA Airways in a distinctive position in the Italian market in its dealings with fuel suppliers, while further strengthening the airline’s reputation and financial standing. In a context where access to energy resources is increasingly shaped by global market dynamics and geopolitical developments, the company describes the new model as a strategically important step forward-boosting its autonomy in fuel procurement and helping to safeguard operational continuity for customers, even during periods of heightened complexity.

Control, efficiency and Lufthansa Group synergies

ITA Airways states that adopting the Self-Supply model will allow it to exert more direct control over the entire fuel procurement process by purchasing-and potentially selling-fuel, including through industrial synergies currently being developed within the Lufthansa Group. The airline expects this to deliver substantial gains in operational efficiency, flexibility and optimisation of fuel procurement costs. It also broadens ITA Airways’ operational remit by assigning new responsibilities and obligations, including in the areas of tax and customs compliance.

“The launch of the Self-Supply model represents a historic milestone for ITA Airways and for the Italian aviation industry,” said Joerg Eberhart, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and General Manager of ITA Airways. “This innovation redefines our role within the aviation fuel value chain, giving us greater control and enhancing our ability to create value in an environment marked by increasing volatility in energy markets and geopolitical tensions affecting fuel availability and prices. This is the start of a gradual journey that will unfold in successive phases, but today it establishes a solid foundation for seizing the opportunities of an evolving market and further strengthening our international competitiveness.”

With the Self-Supply model now in place at its Rome Fiumicino hub, ITA Airways says it is reinforcing its commitment to innovation, supporting the development of Italy’s leading aviation hub, and further consolidating its position as a leading European airline.

Information from ITA Airways