After 75 years, it's the end for Alitalia

It had some illustrious passengers over the years.

Including not one, but several popes.

The current incumbent was a frequent flyer, and he even offered a blessing of sorts.

Thanks to Alitalia for carrying us up to now, he said in September.

But no longer.

After 75 turbulent years the Italian airline has ceased operations.

Over the decades it saw few profits, but numerous bailouts.

In the last three years alone, Rome spent more than $9 billion on rescues.

Now it is no more, replaced by downsized and state-owned successor ITA.

It's in talks to buy the Alitalia brand, meaning travellers may notice little immediate change.

The new airline has around half the planes of its predecessor, but only about a quarter of the workers.

Those cuts have sparked protests from staff, but to no avail.

Now a deal with Brussels will permit the new firm access to state funding.

But it has to show that it's not Alitalia under another name, and must deliver a profit no later than 2025.

The hope is that ITA can prove a more viable business.

But industry experts warn that old habits die hard.

Alitalia's long history of high costs, mismanagement and political and union interference may prove hard to shake off.