Italy's former national airline, Alitalia, has announced plans to lay off its remaining 2,059 workers as it proceeds toward final liquidation. Administrators informed unions about the anticipated cuts, which affect over 1,100 flight attendants and 82 pilots, effective from January. This development occurs amid challenges faced by ITA Airways, Alitalia's successor, as it navigates merger discussions with German airline Lufthansa.
The potential merger has encountered significant delays due to a dispute over pricing for a 41% stake in ITA Airways. Italy's Economy Ministry has resisted Lufthansa's proposals to redefine the purchase terms. Lufthansa pointed out that the state-owned Italian carrier's value might dwindle because of its lackluster performance in the fourth quarter.
Currently under special administration, Alitalia is progressing toward its final dissolution. The layoff notice sent last week highlights the grim conclusion for the once-prominent airline. ITA Airways, facing merger hurdles, symbolizes the complex dynamics of European aviation competition, where past operational failures shadow future business ambitions. (This story was generated by Newser's AI chatbot. Source: the AP)