Lupi says Etihad-Alitalia deal still on, with possible delay

300-million-euro injection plan 'in final stage'

(ANSA) - Rome, April 17 - Transport Minister Maurizio Lupi on Thursday gave assurances that a deal in which Abu Dhabi-based carrier Etihad is set to invest in Italian flag-bearer Alitalia is "in the final stage". The two airlines have been negotiating terms of a major cash injection by Etihad in the cash-strapped Italian carrier, and Lupi said that Wednesday night, Alitalia received a letter updating conditions.

When asked if the new conditions meant a deal may be stalled, Lupi said, "Yes, but we're in the final stage. If the responses convince Etihad to proceed, it's fundamental for each party to do its part". For months, expectations have been high for an investment deal that would see the Abu Dhabi-based airline inject as much as 300 million euros into Alitalia in return for a stake of about 40%. "It's my understanding that Alitalia is responding to all of Etihad's observations. We have Alitalia's guarantee that they'll respond soon. It's my understanding that the deal is still on and we're paying close attention to the continuation of the agreements," added Lupi.