Condor Challenges Lufthansa-ITA Deal Approval in EU Court
Condor has filed a legal challenge with the European General Court against the European Commission’s approval of Lufthansa Group’s acquisition of a 41% stake in ITA Airways. The German leisure carrier submitted the case on May 21, arguing that the Commission’s remedies package fails to adequately address competition concerns.
In a statement to ch-aviation, a Condor spokesperson said, “The remedies imposed are not sufficient to offset the harm to, or even elimination of competition resulting from this transaction. We are asking the Court to annul this decision to allow independent carriers like Condor to develop freely in fair competition and to the benefit of European passengers.”
The European Commission approved Lufthansa’s partial acquisition of ITA Airways in January 2025. While Italy’s Ministry of Economy and Finance retains a 59% stake, Lufthansa has the option to increase its ownership to 100% over time.
Condor’s legal challenge follows a similar move by Luxair, which also filed to annul the Commission’s decision, citing fears of market distortion and reduced consumer choice.
The Lufthansa-ITA deal has drawn scrutiny from smaller European carriers that argue the merger could lead to market concentration on key routes, especially in the Germany-Italy corridor. Critics say the proposed slot and route concessions offered by Lufthansa and ITA fall short of maintaining competitive balance.
The outcome of these legal challenges could shape future airline consolidation efforts in the EU and set precedents for regulatory remedies aimed at preserving competition in the European aviation market.
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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com