Air France-KLM has sent a non-binding letter of interest to Alitalia (photo credit Air France/PH Delafosse).

Air France-KLM has expressed its interest in buying the Italian airline Alitalia – citing a profitable growth strategy and an “unprecedented choice of flight destinations” as benefits of the partnership.

The proposal by Air France-KLM will be considered by Alitalia along with other airlines’ proposals and a partner will be chosen by the end of 2007.

Jean-Cyril Spinette, Air France-KLM Chairman, said: “This major step in European consolidation would not only be beneficial for passengers, but would also meet the requirements for the Group’s economic and financial stability, including its target of a ROCE after tax of 8.5% by the end of fiscal year 2009/2010.”

A partnership between the two airlines has existed since 2001 when Alitalia joined the SkyTeam Alliance – an alliance between 11 airlines to offer passengers a global network of 728 destinations in more than 130 countries – of which Air France and KLM are also members.

In 2004, Air France and KLM joined forces to create the Air France-KLM Group, the world’s leading airline group.

This new proposal would, according to Air France-KLM, increase the choice of flights and destinations available to air passengers, in particular to business travellers.