Alitalia announced the signing of two Memoranda of Understanding (MOU) with Air France and Delta Air Lines.Alitalia's Board of Directors, had approved the signing of the two documents, that portray a wide-range of co-operation in passenger services, cargo transport and other areas of mutual interest.

The companies now enter a phase of exclusive negotiations that in the next weeks will lead to the definition of the relevant agreements. The partnerships will thus become fully operational by signing such contracts, which will be submitted to the European and American anti-trust Authorities. These negotiations also represent the beginning of the process leading to Alitalia's entry in SkyTeam, the global Alliance which, beside Air France and Delta Air Lines, includes Aeromexico, CSA Czech Airlines and Korean Air.

The Alitalia - Air France discussions will cover the development of a multi-hub system between the airports of Paris-Charles de Gaulle, Milan-Malpensa and Rome-Fiumicino; full code-sharing whenever possible; harmonization of the respective frequent flyer programs, MilleMiglia and Fréquence Plus; as well as co-ordination of the services offered.

Synergies will also be pursued in the Cargo, Information Technology and Maintenance areas. Alitalia and Delta Air Lines initially plan to work towards a co-operation in the following fields: co-ordination of schedules to facilitate connections between the two carriers; compatibility of I/T systems; exploration of Cargo opportunities; sharing of facilities and passenger handling in jointly served cities; and mutual participation in their frequent flyer programs.

Francesco Mengozzi, Chief Executive Officer of Alitalia, stated: "We are particularly proud of what we consider a major step forward in Alitalia's expansion strategy. The pursuit of a deep cooperation with two excellent carriers such as Delta and Air France opens a world of opportunities for this airline, its customers and its shareholders. The signing of the MOU marks the ending of the strategic isolation of Alitalia".

Leo F. Mullin, Delta's Chairman and Chief Executive Officer , stated: "Delta is happy to include amongst its partners Italy's largest airline, one of the world's leading airlines. Thanks to this wider cooperation with Alitalia, we shall be able to strengthen our position as a leader on the global air transport market."