Published on
January 5, 2026
By: Tuhin Sarkar
Volotea and ITA Airways New Partnership Will Make Sardinia a Major Travel Hub in 2026In an exciting move that could reshape air travel within Italy, ITA Airways and Volotea have teamed up to submit a joint bid to operate public service obligation (PSO) routes linking Sardinia with mainland Italy. The two carriers are vying for the opportunity to operate the Cagliari-Rome Fiumicino and Olbia-Milan Linate routes. This collaboration marks a pivotal moment for both airlines, especially Volotea, as it aims to expand its footprint in the highly competitive Italian aviation market. By forming a temporary business association, these carriers are set to provide more direct, affordable, and efficient travel options for passengers traveling between Sardinia and mainland Italy.
ITA Airways and Volotea’s Bold Move: Bringing Sardinia Closer to Italy
The bid submitted by ITA Airways and Volotea represents a bold move to enhance air connectivity between Sardinia and mainland Italy. The airlines are competing for the right to operate two major PSO routes that will greatly benefit the Italian travel sector. The Cagliari-Rome Fiumicino and Olbia-Milan Linate routes are crucial for Sardinian residents, offering them better access to major Italian hubs like Rome and Milan. These routes will not only provide convenient connections to the rest of Italy but will also strengthen Sardinia’s position as a key player in the Mediterranean travel market. For Volotea, this partnership with ITA Airways marks a new phase of growth in Italy, opening up more opportunities for the airline to expand its services across the country.
By collaborating, ITA Airways and Volotea are set to provide affordable and efficient flights that cater to both leisure and business travelers. Cagliari and Olbia are key entry points for tourists visiting Sardinia, making these routes crucial for connecting the island to the mainland and for strengthening Italy’s aviation network. With this bid, Volotea and ITA Airways are positioning themselves as the go-to carriers for air travel between Sardinia and mainland Italy.
Public Service Obligation Routes: What This Means for Sardinia’s Future
The public service obligation (PSO) routes are an essential part of Italy’s air travel strategy, ensuring that less profitable routes remain operational. These routes are designed to provide regular, affordable connections to islands and remote regions, where air travel is often the only feasible transportation option. Sardinia, with its stunning landscapes and tourist appeal, has long been a prime candidate for these routes.
By bidding for the Cagliari-Rome Fiumicino and Olbia-Milan Linate routes, ITA Airways and Volotea are demonstrating their commitment to improving connectivity between Sardinia and the mainland. The introduction of these PSO routes will ensure that passengers can travel between Sardinia and Italy’s major cities without the hassle of long waiting times or expensive flights. The routes will also cater to both business travelers and tourists, boosting Sardinia’s tourism and making the island more accessible to visitors from across Italy.
The PSO routes also play a vital role in fostering economic growth by increasing tourism and facilitating business exchanges. With direct flights from Cagliari to Rome and Olbia to Milan, Sardinia will become even more integrated into the wider Italian economy, providing more opportunities for Sardinian residents and Italian businesses alike.
Volotea’s Expansion into Italy: Why This Partnership with ITA Airways Is a Game-Changer
Volotea, known for its affordable, regional flights, has long been a favorite choice for travelers looking for cost-effective travel in Europe. By forming a strategic alliance with ITA Airways, Volotea is taking a huge step towards expanding its influence in the Italian aviation market. This collaboration allows Volotea to strengthen its position in one of Europe’s most competitive aviation markets, offering more direct routes to Sardinia and other key destinations.
The addition of Cagliari-Rome and Olbia-Milan to Volotea’s portfolio provides passengers with affordable and efficient connections between Sardinia and mainland Italy. The airline’s focus on regional travel aligns perfectly with the PSO routes, ensuring that travelers have affordable access to key Italian cities. Volotea’s partnership with ITA Airways is not only a win for the airline but also a significant benefit for the Italian aviation market, as it enhances competition and offers travelers greater choice and convenience.
This partnership is set to be a game-changer for Volotea in Italy, as the airline continues to expand its network and provide affordable options to Italian travelers. Volotea’s ability to operate these new PSO routes alongside ITA Airways will undoubtedly attract more travelers and tourists to Sardinia, boosting its tourism industry and economic growth.
ITA Airways’ Vision for the Future: Connecting Sardinia with Mainland Italy
As Italy’s national airline, ITA Airways has been instrumental in improving air travel throughout the country. With its strong focus on connectivity and sustainability, ITA Airways is uniquely positioned to play a key role in the development of Sardinia’s aviation network. The new routes to Cagliari and Olbia are part of ITA Airways’ strategy to improve air access to Italy’s islands and ensure that remote regions remain connected to mainland Italy.
By bidding for the PSO routes, ITA Airways is also demonstrating its commitment to serving the needs of Sardinian residents and businesses. The airline’s focus on providing affordable, efficient travel to and from Sardinia will boost tourism, foster economic development, and increase regional connectivity. This move solidifies ITA Airways’ role as a key player in Italy’s aviation sector, while also ensuring that Sardinia remains a popular destination for both tourists and business travelers.
The Future of Sardinia: How New Routes Will Transform Travel Between Sardinia and Mainland Italy
The introduction of the Cagliari-Rome and Olbia-Milan nonstop flights represents a huge leap forward for Sardinia’s aviation network. As part of Porter Airlines’ expansion into Southern Europe, these routes will make Sardinia more accessible to both tourists and business travelers. With more frequent flights, Sardinia will see a boost in tourism, bringing in visitors who wish to experience its beautiful beaches, charming towns, and rich history. The routes also offer Sardinian residents better access to major Italian cities, providing new opportunities for business and leisure travel.
Sardinia’s integration into the wider Italian transport system will allow local businesses to thrive, while also helping to position Sardinia as a vibrant hub for tourism and culture. These changes will provide a strong foundation for Sardinia’s continued growth, ensuring it remains one of Italy’s most exciting travel destinations.
