Alitalia was the flag carrier of Italy, operating for over seven decades as one of Europe's most recognized airlines. Founded in 1946, it served destinations across Europe, the Americas, Africa, and Asia, acting as a symbol of Italian identity and culture in international aviation. Despite its storied history, Alitalia struggled persistently with financial losses, labor disputes, and management challenges. The airline entered extraordinary administration multiple times and received significant government bailouts in failed attempts to return it to profitability. Alitalia ceased operations on October 14, 2021, when its assets and operations were transferred to a new state-backed carrier, ITA Airways (Italia Trasporto Aereo). ITA Airways took over many of Alitalia's routes, some staff, and selected assets, effectively replacing it as Italy's national airline.