Giuridico e Amministrativo

📌 China extends visa exemption from 15 to 30 days until December 31, 2025, benefitting tourists from 38 countries, including Italy. Travelers can now transit via China to other destinations for up to 240 hours (10 days). A valid passport with a minimum six months validity and two blank pages is required.

🛫 In France, Finance Minister Amélie de Montchalin supports maintaining the previous government's 'environmental tax' on flights, potentially increasing it. This tax aims for fiscal and ecological justice, as the top 20% wealthiest account for over half of air travel expenses. However, the tourism industry warns that higher taxes could reduce competitiveness.

🏩 Lufthansa's acquisition of 41% of Ita Airways is set for closure on January 13. The deal involves a €325 million capital increase. The new board will have 5 members, with the majority (3) appointed by the Italian Ministry of Economy and Finance, which retains a 59% stake. Jorg Eberhart is the expected CEO. The Italian carrier began operations on October 15, 2021, and by January 2022, it announced privatization intentions, with Lufthansa securing the deal post-EU Antitrust approval.

✈ Lufthansa is set to acquire 41% of Ita Airways with a closing date for the deal announced for Monday, January 13. The agreement, which involves a capital increase of 325 million euros, comes after tumultuous events since Ita Airways began operations on October 15, 2021. The board will consist of 5 members, 3 from the Italian Ministry of Economy and Finance (holding 59%) and 2 from Lufthansa. Jorg Eberhart is the speculated front-runner for CEO position. The EU Antitrust clearance was required before finalizing the date.

📌 The first strike of 2025 on January 10 affects transportation in Italy, with buses, trains, and planes facing disruptions. Following a record 622 strikes in 2024, the action begins on January 8 with the Ugl union's ferry strike in Sicily. On January 9, Rfi rail maintenance workers from Cub transport strike for 24 hours. January 10 will see Cobas Lavoro Privato, Coordinamento Ferrovieri, and Assemblea Nazionale Lavoratori Manutenzione Rfi rail workers halt services. Local transport workers from Confail Fasa will strike for 4 hours with variances by city. In Milan, Atm group workers strike from 8:45 to 12:45, while ATAC in Rome disrupts from 8:30 to 12:30. Air travel will be affected, particularly in Milan, Venice, and Pisa, with Linate, Malpensa, Venice, and Filcams Cgil Pisa airport workers participating.

🏠 Bergamo is set to increase its tourist tax from 6% to 7% of the total cost of accommodation. The hike, however, won't affect hotel guests who already often pay the maximum cap of €5 per day per person, primarily impacting those staying in non-hotel facilities (B&Bs, holiday homes, room rentals).

🏢 In 2025, Trenitalia's Regionale will introduce 100 new trains with an investment of €850 million, anticipating over 430 million travelers. By 2027, the fleet will be 80% renewed with 1,061 new trains, thanks to a total investment of €7 billion. The previous year, 2024, saw 415 million passengers, an increase of 8 million from the previous year, with around 45% traveling for leisure and tourism. Digital Ticket usage rose to 43%, and intermodal links reached about 200 nationwide. The Giubileo 2025 initiatives include Metrebus ticket sales on the Trenitalia APP and extended Leonardo Express services.

🏖 Paolo Vitelli, President and founder of Azimut Benetti, passed away tragically and prematurely. Leading the National Association of Marine Industry from 1998 until 2006, Vitelli was pivotal in promoting 'Made in Italy' and achieving global excellence in yacht design and construction. Confindustria Nautica, with profound sorrow, acknowledges his visionary legacy, uniting industry members in mourning. The association extends condolences to his daughter Giovanna, family, and Azimut Benetti employees. Genova, January 1, 2025.

🎁 Milan Bergamo Airport surpassed 17 million passengers during the Christmas holidays, showing significant growth from nearly 16 million the previous year. The achievement is attributed to the vision and synergies of airport operations, including contributions from employees and various operators, as stated by SACBO President Giovanni Stanga. The airport's quality and safety are set to improve further with the expansion of passenger terminal facilities, including new check-in and security areas.

✈️ Air Baltic cancels 4,670 flights in 2025 due to engine maintenance issues with their Airbus aircraft. Affected flights originate from Riga, Vilnius, Tampere, and Tallinn, primarily impacting summer routes to British airports and Mediterranean destinations. The cancellations are attributed to unexpected delays and extended engine maintenance by supplier Pratt & Whitney.