Houston’s leaders celebrate a major win as ITA Airways lands nonstop service from George Bush Intercontinental to Rome, with flights set to begin in May 2026.
If Italy is on your travel list, getting there from Houston just got much easier. City and business officials announced Tuesday that ITA Airways will launch its first-ever nonstop route from IAH to Rome, starting next spring.
Houston Mayor John Whitmire called the news a “special, special announcement” that has long been a goal for city leaders. He framed it as a win for residents and businesses on both sides of the Atlantic and highlighted the timing, noting that the FIFA World Cup will bring an international spotlight to Houston next summer.
“This demonstrates that Houston is an international city that’s being discovered,” Whitmire said at the briefing. “The Houston–Rome route will deepen our business, diplomatic, and cultural ties with Italy. It will also invite more visitors to experience Houston’s vibrant culture, top-tier healthcare, and diverse industries.”
ITA Airways has already opened reservations for the Rome–Houston service, with flights slated to begin May 1, 2026 (https://www.ita-airways.com/en_en/).
“This new route will bring in new visitors, new investment, and new business opportunities to our region,” said Jim Szczesniak, Director of Aviation for Houston Airports. “It broadens Houston’s footprint in Europe and demonstrates that disciplined, strategic growth at Houston Airports yields real economic impact. A strong airport system doesn’t just transport people—it shapes markets, unlocks opportunities, and helps define a city’s place in the world.”
The mayor and ITA credited Tillman Fertitta, Houston’s leading business advocate and U.S. Ambassador to Italy, as a pivotal influence in securing the deal.
“His marketing of Houston was incredibly persuasive,” observed ITA Airways CEO and General Manager Joerg Eberhart. “We see significant market potential, and we also recognize the cultural and economic ties that connect our regions.”
Fertitta expressed enthusiasm for both cities, emphasizing that this is more than a new flight—it's a tangible bridge between two remarkable locales with shared strengths. “Houston is among America’s most dynamic, economically powerful cities, drawing visitors from around the world with our robust energy sector and renowned medical center. Whether you’re traveling for business, energy, culture, sports, or cuisine, this route will broaden access to Houston’s offerings.”
According to Eberhart, ITA will deploy its newest aircraft on the route, an Airbus 330-900, as part of a network that already links Rome Fiumicino with 16 other Italian airports, enabling rapid connections nationwide.
“Travelers will also experience authentic Italian culture, style, cuisine, and hospitality onboard,” he added.
Initially, ITA will operate three weekly flights—Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays—from May. Beginning June 1, service will increase to five weekly flights, adding Mondays and Saturdays.
Houston will become ITA’s ninth destination in North America.
In other encouraging news, ITA recently announced codeshare arrangements with United Airlines and Air Canada, expanding access and convenience for travelers.
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