Air Dolomiti: our history

From regional roots to a key airline within the Lufthansa Group

Steffen Harbarth CEO Air Dolomiti

Air Dolomiti began operations in 1991, with the aim of developing connections from smaller Italian cities to the rest of Europe, concentrating on the frequency and scheduling of its flights and the quality of the service. Today Air Dolomiti represents the Italian branch of Lufthansa, flying out of the main Italian and European airports to Germany, with about 550 weekly flights to Munich and Frankfurt airports.

 

1991: Foundation

Air Dolomiti is founded with the mission of providing efficient and high-quality air connections between Italy and Europe. Flight operations start on 21 January 1991.

 

1993: First international routes

The airline launches its first international flights and begins a commercial partnership with Lufthansa, opening a new phase of European development.

 

1994: Partnership with Lufthansa

Air Dolomiti becomes an official Partner of Lufthansa, strengthening its position as a regional airline within the European aviation market.

 

1999 - 2003: Integration into the Lufthansa Group

Lufthansa progressively acquires shares in Air Dolomiti and becomes the sole shareholder in 2003, fully integrating the airline into the Lufthansa Group.

 

2009: Fleet modernisation

Air Dolomiti is the first airline in Italy to operate the Embraer 195, marking a key step in fleet renewal and service enhancement.

 

2010s: Network consolidation

The airline consolidates its role as a regional carrier, specialising in direct connections between Italian airports and Lufthansa hubs in Europe.

 

2020 - 2024: Continuity, growth and innovation

During a challenging period for global aviation, Air Dolomiti ensures operational continuity and maintains essential connectivity between Italy and Europe, while strengthening its network, fleet efficiency and digital processes in support of the Lufthansa Group’s European operations.

 

Today

Air Dolomiti operates a modern fleet and offers frequent scheduled flights from Italy and Europe, combining Italian identity, reliability and the strength of the Lufthansa Group.

Air Dolomiti smiling flight attendants in front of Air Dolomiti aircraft

Over the years Air Dolomiti has built up a cutting-edge fleet thanks to its ongoing policy of renewal, which has seen it invest in aircraft of the latest generation right from its inception. 

Since February 2009 Air Dolomiti has been flying a fleet of Embraer 195s as launch customer in Italy for this flexible, dynamic technological marvel of an aircraft with its innovative design.

Built from scratch using virtual reality technology, the E195 has been optimized for the 70-120 seat segment.

The fleet is currently composed by 17 Embraer 195 and 9 Embraer 190.  

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Air Dolomiti Fleet

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Service charter

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