Alitalia is weighed down by huge debt, something that is believed to have been a big sticking point in the negotiations which began at the end of last year.
Another problem is cuts in the Alitalia workforce of 12,800 which will be needed. It is believed that about 2,200 jobs will have to be axed.
Etihad Airways has expanded rapidly in recent years, largely on a rise of air travel in the Gulf region of the Middle East.
In a joint statement, which provided no details, the two airlines said they had agreed the "terms and conditions" of a proposed transaction that will see Etihad Airways owning 49 percent of the equity in Alitalia.
The companies said they would tie up the deal as soon as possible subject to approval from regulators.
Source: AFP via I-Net Bridge
For more than two decades, I-Net Bridge has been one of South Africa’s preferred electronic providers of innovative solutions, data of the highest calibre, reliable platforms and excellent supporting systems. Our products include workstations, web applications and data feeds packaged with in-depth news and powerful analytical tools empowering clients to make meaningful decisions.
We pride ourselves on our wide variety of in-house skills, encompassing multiple platforms and applications. These skills enable us to not only function as a first class facility, but also design, implement and support all our client needs at a level that confirms I-Net Bridge a leader in its field.
Go to: http://www.inet.co.za
