Alitalia's Business Class: Is It Still La Dolce Vita in the Skies?

Alitalia Business Class: A Look Back and a Glimpse of Hope (Updated: October 26, 2023)

For many American travelers, Alitalia's reputation precedes it. My own experiences from the mid-2000s certainly aligned with the less-than-stellar reviews. However, recent changes and a renewed focus might be signaling a brighter future for the Italian carrier.

My recent trip through Rome's Fiumicino Airport (FCO) offered a fresh perspective. While navigating passport control with family presented the usual variations in processing times (automated e-gates are a lifesaver!), the real surprise was the Alitalia lounge.

Forget the disappointing lounges of years past. The Casa Alitalia Piazza di Spagna Lounge near gate E11 in Terminal 3 was a revelation. Yes, it was crowded during the morning rush, but the improvement was undeniable. The food and drink selection was genuinely impressive, boasting a wide array of buffet options and a live cooking station where a chef prepared fresh eggs. This was a far cry from the lackluster offerings I remembered.

The in-flight experience on short-to-medium haul international routes, often utilizing Airbus A319 and A321 aircraft, remains fairly standard. The seats are configured in a 3x3 layout, mirroring economy class. Unfortunately, power ports and Wi-Fi are still absent – a significant drawback in today's connected world. The blue leather seats and yellowish antimacassar (yes, that's the name for the small cloth on the headrest!) offer a touch of visual appeal, but the lack of modern amenities is noticeable.

While Alitalia's Business Class within Europe mirrors many other European carriers, the upgraded lounge experience at FCO suggests a positive shift. As the travel industry hopefully stabilizes, and with the Italian government's renewed involvement, there's reason to believe Alitalia can leave its past reputation behind and offer a more competitive and enjoyable travel experience for American passengers.