A new era under German leadership has begun for ex-Alitalia, now Ita Airways. Lufthansa has appointed Joerg Eberhart (54), its Chief Strategy Officer, as its new CEO. Eberhart was previously the top leader of Air Dolomiti. Ita Airways' new president is Sandro Pappalardo (57), an army pilot with different awards for missions abroad (Afghanistan) and a member of Enit's Board of Directors. Lufthansa has entered the company's capital with a 41% interest after disbursing $325 million for a capital raise. To achieve control, the German group will be able to buy an additional 49% for $325 million between the end of 2025 and 2029. There is a variable element, a $100 million earn-out clause, which Lufthansa can activate under specific conditions. Following 2029, Lufthansa will have the opportunity to exercise the option for an additional 10% by paying 79 million, resulting in a total investment of 829 million. "After more than two years of hard work£, said Eberhart, "this new phase will allow us to strengthen our position and develop strategic synergies that will enhance the growth of Ita Airways as Italy's flagship carrier, ready to provide the country with greater connectivity and passengers with a wider choice of destinations".