“Minister Stefano Patuanelli has authorized a further extension for the presentation of the binding offer for the new Alitalia until 21 November 2019, subject to two conditions:
- direct intervention of the Commissioners and immediate discussion with the bidders;
- a request for daily updates on the progress of the work".
The press release from the Ministry of Development announcing that the request made by Ferrovie to continue the negotiations for another 8 weeks to close the company's rescue was absolutely laconic, but only partially accepted.
With the October 15 deadline having expired without an agreed solution being able to be found to get the company back on track with new partners, therefore the mini-postponement requested by the Fs and endorsed by the commissioners who will now have to enter the game directly. The financial coverage to allow Alitalia to continue flying was included in the tax decree approved last week by the government with the formula "unless agreed".
As recalled, both FS and Atlantia (parent company of Aeroporti di Roma) should acquire a 35% stake in the company and the Ministry of the Economy another 15%. The attempt would be to get Delta on board as well at 15%. The pressing is underway just as Lufthansa has come forward again:
