Alitalia has unveiled a new look for its planes in a revamp initiated under the partnership with Etihad Airways that saved the Italian carrier from bankruptcy.

The green band that has adorned the fuselage of Alitalia jets for 46 years has been dropped along with the predominately green colour scheme in cabin interiors, said a report in the Gulf Daily News (GDN), our sister publication.

The tailfin retains the red, white and green of the Italian flag but has been made bolder and more distinctive with the addition of black lines through the red.

Greys and reds now dominate inside the plane with tan and brown leather touches in economy and full leather seats in business class that have been designed by Italy's Poltrona Frau.

WiFi access throughout planes, new menus and entertainment packages and Etihad-style on-demand dining in business class are also part of the makeover.

Chief executive Silvano Cassano said the strategy was to reposition the airline as representing the best of Italy in terms of style and hospitality and the high service standards set by Etihad.

Etihad CEO James Hogan said Alitalia had benefited from €1.76 billion ($2.7 billion) euros of investment since Etihad acquired a 49 per cent stake at the end of last year.

The plane, named Artemisia Gentileschi after a 17th Century Italian artist, will make its first flight from Rome to Etihad's Abu Dhabi hub today. - TradeArabia News Service