Alitalia to introduce new customer experience on long-haul flights

Alitalia announced (04-Jun-2015) a series of upgrades to its in-flight and ground product, which aim "to reposition the airline as a leader in superior service, and to represent the best of Italy on the world stage". The new service elements will be available on all widebody international services from 01-Jul-2015:

• Business class: Etihad Airways' 'Dine Anytime' service to be added in addition to a "more personalised and unobtrusive delivery style" for meals, with Italian meals to be available whenever requested by passengers and served by hand. The carrier will also introduce a new 'Spuntino' menu, offering snacks available throughout a flight. A turndown service will also be offered on all A330 and Boeing 777 frequencies featuring lie-flat seats, with a "bedtime beverage" available in addition to a new 'Piccola Colazione' quick breakfast. Seats will be upholstered in leather from Italian furniture maker Poltrona Frau;
• Premium economy class: Service to be upgraded around the concept of "connected comfort", with a welcome aperitif, hot towel, increased meal and beverage choices, new contemporary crockery and fine bone china tableware. Espresso coffee will also be available on request, in addition to a selection of digestifs and snacks. Complimentary amenity kits will also be offered in addition to a sleep kit on overnight services which includes a blanket and pillow. Noise reduction headsets will also be provided;
• Economy class: Refreshed Italian and international meal choices including "fine wines and warm bakery items" to be available, as well as a new meal tray presentation. A "signature Caffè service" will be offered, featuring freshly brewed coffee and a selection of herbal teas. Passengers will also be provided with a "plush Frette fleece blanket and new style pillow";
• In-flight entertainment (IFE) and connectivity: Increased entertainment options and a new Guest User Interface (GUI) to be rolled out across the long-haul fleet, with Alitalia to install Panasonic GCS WiFi, LiveTV and 2G GSM connectivity and Panasonic eX2 IFE systems on all A330 and 777 aircraft. The carrier's 'Ulisse' in-flight magazine is also undergoing a "complete redesign";
• Crew uniforms: A new uniform will be introduced in 2016, with a modification "applied to the current male uniform with the inclusion of a navy blue and green striped tie." Onboard leaders will now also be identified by navy blue and red striped scarves and ties. [more - original PR - English/Italian]