Air Italy was an Italian airline that operated as the country's second-largest carrier before ceasing operations. Originally founded as Meridiana, the airline was rebranded as Air Italy in 2018 following a major investment by Qatar Airways, which acquired a 49% stake in the carrier. The airline operated scheduled domestic and international flights, including long-haul routes to North America and Asia, positioning itself as a competitive alternative to Alitalia. Its main hub was at Milan Malpensa Airport, with a secondary hub at Olbia Airport in Sardinia, the historical base of the former Meridiana. Air Italy abruptly ceased all operations in February 2020 after its shareholders, Aga Khan Fund for Economic Development and Qatar Airways, decided to liquidate the company. The sudden shutdown left thousands of passengers stranded and resulted in significant job losses among the airline's staff.