Paris - French-Dutch carrier Air France-KLM said on Wednesday that it had completed its takeover of 25 per cent of the capital of the Italian airline Alitalia.

Air France-KLM is paying 323 million euros (436 million euros) for its share, but the company said it in a statement that the partnership would provide it "greater access to the Italian market."

After coming close to bankruptcy last year, Alitalia has "firmed up" its position on the Italian market following its purchase by Italian carrier Air One, Air France-KLM said. (dpa)