Several top airlines fly to Italy with exceptional service, flexible fares, and effortless connections. Whether you’re searching for flights from London to Rome, Paris to Pisa, New York to Milan, or other destinations, this section will help you determine the most suitable itinerary for your vacation to Italy.
ITA Airways, United Airlines, and Delta Air Lines are frequently cited as the top choices for this intercontinental flight. Delta is notable for its extensive range of direct flights from major U.S. hubs, such as Detroit (DTW) and Atlanta (ATL). On the other hand, ITA Airways offers competitive services with nonstop flights from hubs such as Newyork (JFK) and Chicago (ORD) to important Italian cities.
However, the best airline will rely on several factors, including your preferred travel destination, budget, departure city, and Italy. Read the comprehensive guide to discover the top airlines to fly to Italy, including nonstop flights, connections, and comfort level.
Top 9 Airlines to Fly From the US to Italy
Price, comfort, direct flights, and loyalty benefits all help determine which airline is best for your trip to Italy. Here is a breakdown of the leading airlines that frequently fly to Italian cities.
| Airlines | Direct Flights | Stopover Option | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| United Airlines | Yes (to Rome, Milan, Naples, Venice) | No (A few flights have a stopover) | Star Alliance connections, US hubs |
| American Airlines | Yes (to Rome, Milan) | No | Nonstop flights, Oneworld members |
| ITA Airways | Yes (to Rome, Milan) | No | Authentic Italian experience |
| Delta Air Lines | Yes (to Rome, Milan, Venice, Naples) | No | Strong connectivity, SkyMiles program |
| British Airways | No | Yes (London Heathrow, LHR) | Premium cabin experience, good Europe access |
| Emirates | No | Yes,(Dubai Airport, DXB) | Superior in-flight amenities and opulent service |
| Lufthansa | No | Yes (Frankfurt or Munich Airport) | German efficiency, exceptional service, and accessibility to smaller cities in Italy |
| TAP Air Portugal | No | Yes (Lisbon, Porto) | Budget travelers |
| Air Europa | No | Yes (London Heathrow) | Flexible ticketing and premium service. |
For Direct Flights From the US to Italy
Here is a detailed summary of the top airlines that offer direct flights to Italy with first-class services and amenities.
1. ITA Airways
ITA Airways became Italy’s primary national carrier, replacing Alitalia. It focuses on providing passengers with an authentic Italian experience from the minute they embark. You may anticipate delicious pasta dishes, Italian wines, and friendly flight attendants. This contains:
- Direct flights from major US Airports to Rome Fiumicino (FCO) and Milan (LIN or MXP).
- Authentic Italian in-flight meals and beverages.
- Competitive economy pricing, with Business Class for enhanced comfort.
- Codeshare arrangements with SkyTeam partners, including Delta, to facilitate connections.
A traveler said on Rick Steves Europe forum includes “I enjoyed flying ITA Airways nonstop from LAX to Rome, way better than dealing with long Frankfurt or Paris layovers.”
2. American Airlines
As an Oneworld Alliance member, American Airlines is the finest business class airline for flying to Italy. With 7000 flights each day, they serve around 350 destinations in more than 50 countries.
- American Airlines, a prominent US carrier, offers direct flights to Rome and Milan from significant locations such as New York, Miami, and Chicago.
- They provide excellent international flights, particularly in their 1-2-1 business class cabins, which are noted for their exceptional comfort.
- Among the facilities offered are complimentary soft drinks and snacks, Wi-Fi for purchase, and entertainment options on your device or the airline’s in-flight screens.
Overall, AA is a reliable and secure airline, noted for its great mileage redemption offerings and a variety of options to suit different budgets.
3. United Airlines
United Airlines offers nonstop service from Newark, Chicago, and San Francisco to Italy. As a member of Star Alliance, it also provides easy access to smaller Italian cities via affiliated airlines.
- United Polaris Business Class is one of the most comfortable and private seats available on transatlantic flights. Since November 2021, it has been operating the 767 nonstop to Rome in a 1-1-1 arrangement, with each seat having its personal aisle access.
- It offers a wide range of in-flight entertainment on international flights, including over 100 films and television series that can be viewed on the main screen or your device.
We would easily claim that it is the most valuable business class from the United States to Rome.
Also Read: When United Flights Are Cheapest to Book and Fly?
4. Delta Airlines
A well-known US airline, Delta, is renowned for its punctual service and polite staff. It is affiliated with the SkyTeam Alliance. It frequently offers direct flights to Rome (FCO) and other Italian cities from New York (JFK) and Atlanta (ATL). This comprises:
- Regular direct flights from several US locations to Rome and Milan
- On several routes, upgraded economy seats are available.
- Seat-back screens and a huge library of entertainment
With its 1-2-1 seating arrangement, the A330 provides the best business class service. Delta’s dependability and extensive US network make it a popular choice among travelers who wish to avoid inconvenience. Moreover, a user on Reddit stated that “If money isn’t a concern for you, then Delta is the top choice and consistently ranked at the top globally.”
5. Emirates
Without a doubt, Emirates is one of the best airlines for traveling to Italy as they value quality over quantity. This airline is known for its extensive coverage, offering flights to this European country from a variety of locations. Its outstanding services and opulent amenities further establish it as the leading carrier.
- Emirates Airlines’ passenger flights depart for Rome, Milan, Venice, and Bologna.
- It excels in the upscale business class, with comfortable seats and a range of amenities that include flatbeds, delectable food, thousands of channels, free WiFi, and drinks.
- The First Class cabin represents the epitome of luxury travel.
- It is a top airline to fly to Italy due to its youngest fleet.
Altogther, a frequent passenger on FlyerTalk, stated that “If you’re flying from NYC, ITA and Delta both offer great nonstops. However, from the West Coast, Emirates with a Dubai layover or ITA from LAX are excellent possibilities.
For Connecting Flights (from the US or Europe)
The following section highlights the airlines that offer connecting flights to Italy.
1. British Airways
As a member of the Oneworld Alliance, British Airways is the biggest airline in the United Kingdom. It is a great option for travelers who are connecting in London. It offers one-stop flights to important Italian cities via London Heathrow. Additionally, it is an excellent airline for both business and leisure tourists due to its first-rate service and flexible ticketing alternatives. Facilities include:
- Regular flights from numerous American cities
- Avios reward points are transferred to partners, including Aer Lingus and Iberia.
- Upgraded cabin classes, such as Club World and Premium Economy, and a modern fleet
- British-inspired cuisine is frequently served during in-flight meals.
2. Air France
Air France, a member of SkyTeam, operates flights from numerous US airports via its Charles de Gaulle (CDG) hub in Paris. Rome (FCO), Milan (MXP), Venice (VCE), or Florence (FLR) are all conveniently accessible from Paris. Air France is creating a French atmosphere on board with elegant meals and wine. These airlines include:
- Business class passengers get access to Air France lounges. The cabins are stylish and have an attentive cabin crew.
- Members of the Flying Blue loyalty program can accrue miles that can be used for a quick trip to the City of Light during a layover on Air France or KLM Paris.
3. TAP Air Portugal
TAP Air Portugal offers reasonably priced flights with Porto and Lisbon stopovers. Moreover, TAP’s complimentary stopover program allows travelers to spend up to 10 days exploring Portugal before going on to Italy.
TAP is certified as a three-star airline, taking into account factors including personnel service, meals, and onboard comfort. However, according to a regular TAP traveler, “If nothing goes wrong, flights are fine, but when you need help, their customer service is practically nonexistent.”
4. Air Europa
Through Madrid, Air Europa provides excellent connectivity at reasonable prices. It’s a wonderful option for travelers on a tight budget because of its contemporary aircraft and first-rate economy-class service.
While Air Europa is widely commended for its low fares and contemporary aircraft, it is also heavily criticized for poor customer service and frequent delays.
What to Look for When Booking Flights to Italy?
Flying across the Atlantic is more than just getting from A to B. You’ll likely spend eight to twelve hours in the air, so factors like seat comfort and entertainment can significantly impact your mood. Here are some things you might consider before choosing an airline to fly to Italy.
- Price: In the economy, flights to Italy can cost anywhere from about $600 to more than $1,500, depending on the time of year. During the busiest summer months (June to August) and during the winter holidays, fares frequently increase.
- On-Time Arrivals: Check the airline’s on-time performance for a smooth experience. With fewer delays, you may board a train and begin exploring as soon as you get off the plane.
- In-Flight Amenities: You can relax better and minimize painful stiffness with a few extra inches of legroom. Additionally, a varied collection of music and movies reduces boredom during lengthy journeys.
Also Read:
- What Happens If You Miss Your Flight?
- Is Frontier Airlines a Good Airline?
- Why is Frontier Airlines So Cheap?
- Why Are Spirit Airlines Flights So Cheap?
Summing Up
Many airlines, such as United Airlines, American Airlines, British Airways, and ITA Airways, are regarded as the best for travel to Italy. With their own unique set of benefits to enhance your trip, these airlines are the top choices for anyone looking for a top airline to fly to Italy.
Although some of them provide direct flights, these airlines are renowned for providing convenient connections. Additionally, their younger fleet, first-rate in-flight facilities, excellent safety records, and other features make them the best options.
FAQs
ITA Airways is the greatest option for direct flights to Italy, while Emirates and United provide exceptional service and global connections at a reasonable price.
ITA Airways, Lufthansa, American Airlines, Neos Air, and United Airlines provide direct flights from the United States to Italy.
The second week of November through the first week of December often offers exceptionally cheap airfare and accommodation rates for travel to Italy. Prices are also quite low from the second week of January through mid-March, depending on when Easter falls.
ITA Airways, Emirates, Turkish Airlines, Lufthansa, Delta, United, Swiss, and British Airways are among the top international airlines to travel to Rome, Italy.
