Milan Malpensa Airport

Milan Malpensa Airport is the principal international airport serving Milan and the Lombardy region in northern Italy. Located in the province of Varese, approximately 45 kilometers northwest of central Milan, it is Italy’s second-busiest passenger airport, after Rome Fiumicino, and an important gateway for international and intercontinental travel.

Identified by the IATA code MXP and ICAO code LIMC, Milan Malpensa Airport is operated by SEA (Società Esercizi Aeroportuali), the company responsible for managing Milan’s main airports. The airport serves domestic, European, and long-haul international destinations, handling both passenger flights and substantial volumes of commercial air freight.

Milan Malpensa Airport has two passenger terminals, Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, together with a dedicated cargo complex. Both passenger terminals are connected to Milan by rail and road, including the Malpensa Express train service.

Milan Malpensa Airport Infrastructure

Terminal 1 – International and Intercontinental Flights

Terminal 1 is the largest passenger facility at Milan Malpensa Airport and handles a wide range of domestic, international, and intercontinental flights. The terminal accommodates numerous airlines operating connections throughout Europe, the Americas, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, serving passengers traveling for business, tourism, and international transfers.

The terminal is organized into several levels, with dedicated areas for departures, arrivals, check-in, and baggage collection. After passing through security, passengers reach different boarding areas according to their destination and the applicable border-control requirements. Non-Schengen flights involve passport control, while Schengen departures follow separate passenger procedures.

Terminal 1 also contains a railway station, Malpensa Aeroporto T1, directly connected to the passenger building. Travelers can reach the airport’s public transport facilities without leaving the terminal complex. The building also accommodates car rental desks, airport hotels nearby, taxi services, and covered parking areas accessible through pedestrian connections.

Terminal 2 – The easyJet Terminal

Terminal 2 at Milan Malpensa Airport is dedicated to easyJet, one of Europe’s major low-cost airlines. The terminal serves the carrier’s network of domestic and international flights, providing a separate facility from Terminal 1.

The terminal underwent substantial modernization before reopening in May 2023. Improvements included 21 self-service baggage-drop machines, redesigned security checkpoints, automated screening equipment, and upgrades to passenger circulation areas. The refurbishment also introduced more efficient lighting, air-conditioning systems, escalators, and lifts throughout the building.

Terminal 2 has its own railway station, Malpensa Aeroporto T2, which allows passengers to travel directly between the airport and Milan. The terminal also provides parking facilities, taxi ranks, airport shuttle stops, shops, and food outlets. A free shuttle service connects Terminal 2 with Terminal 1.

Runways, Aircraft Facilities, and Cargo Operations

Milan Malpensa Airport operates two parallel runways, designated 17L/35R and 17R/35L. Each runway measures approximately 3,920 meters long and 60 meters wide. Their dimensions accommodate large commercial aircraft, including wide-body aircraft used for long-distance passenger services and international cargo operations.

The airport’s infrastructure includes aircraft parking stands, taxiways, maintenance facilities, refueling systems, and technical installations supporting flight operations. Aircraft movements are coordinated through air traffic control services, while ground-handling companies provide baggage loading, aircraft servicing, passenger boarding assistance, and other operational activities.

An important part of Milan Malpensa Airport is Malpensa Cargo, Italy’s leading air-freight hub. The complex handles international shipments, including industrial products, pharmaceutical goods, and other commercial cargo. Its specialized warehouses, handling equipment, and road connections support freight distribution throughout northern Italy and international markets.
 

Short History of Milan Malpensa Airport

The Origins of Aviation at Malpensa

The history of Milan Malpensa Airport began during the early development of aviation in Italy. On May 27, 1910, aviation pioneer Giovanni Battista Caproni conducted the first flight of his Ca.1 aircraft near Cascina Malpensa, in the territory of Somma Lombardo, establishing the area’s historical connection with aircraft development.

During the following decades, the Malpensa area became associated with military aviation. The surrounding territory provided sufficient open space for an airfield and related facilities. Aviation activities continued through the first half of the twentieth century, although the infrastructure remained primarily connected with military and technical purposes.

Following the Second World War, several Italian entrepreneurs established Aeroporto di Busto Società per Azioni in 1948 to convert the former military airfield into a civilian airport. The airport officially opened on November 21, 1948, marking the beginning of scheduled civilian aviation operations at Malpensa.

Development into an International Airport

In 1949, the airport’s runway was reopened with approximately 1,800 meters of new paving, while passengers were initially accommodated in a modest terminal building. The following year brought improvements to runway lighting and navigation infrastructure, allowing the airport to support night operations and longer-distance flights.

On February 2, 1950, Trans World Airlines operated a direct connection between Malpensa and New York. This development demonstrated the airport’s growing international importance. During the following decades, the infrastructure was expanded to accommodate increasing passenger numbers and the introduction of larger commercial aircraft.

The most significant transformation of Milan Malpensa Airport occurred with the Malpensa 2000 project, which substantially expanded the airport’s passenger-handling capacity. On October 25, 1998, the new Terminal 1 opened, establishing the basis for Malpensa’s development as a major international aviation hub serving northern Italy.

Modernization and Recent Developments

The opening of the Malpensa Express railway connection in 1999 significantly improved accessibility between the airport and Milan. Subsequent investments included expanded aircraft aprons, additional parking facilities, and improvements to passenger infrastructure. In 2016, the railway network was extended to Terminal 2.

In June 2020, Terminal 2 closed because of the sharp reduction in passenger traffic during the COVID-19 pandemic. Following refurbishment, the terminal reopened on May 31, 2023, restoring its role as easyJet’s dedicated facility and incorporating modernized security systems and passenger services.

In 2024, the Italian civil aviation authority approved the airport’s dedication to former Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi. After legal challenges were rejected in April 2026, the official naming ceremony took place on September 25, 2026. The airport retained its internationally recognized Malpensa name and the MXP code.

Milan Malpensa Airport Services

Check-in, Security, and Passenger Information

Milan Malpensa Airport provides traditional airline check-in counters alongside self-service check-in facilities for participating carriers. Depending on the airline and ticket conditions, passengers may check in online, obtain mobile boarding passes, and use automated baggage-drop equipment.

Passengers departing from Milan Malpensa Airport must pass through aviation security controls before accessing the boarding areas. Additional identity and passport checks apply according to the destination.

Shopping, Restaurants, and Passenger Facilities

The shopping areas of Milan Malpensa Airport include fashion boutiques, accessory stores, cosmetics retailers, electronics shops, and duty-free outlets. Many retail facilities are located beyond security, although shops are also available in public terminal areas.

Passengers can choose from a range of restaurants, cafés, bars, and takeaway establishments offering Italian and international food. The available options include coffee, sandwiches, pastries, and full meals. Dining facilities operate in both terminals.

Additional services at Milan Malpensa Airport include free Wi-Fi, currency exchange, ATMs, and passenger lounges. Some lounges are accessible through airline eligibility, membership programs, or paid admission. Fast Track services, available at both terminals, provide access to dedicated security lanes for passengers holding an eligible ticket.

Accessibility and Special Assistance

Milan Malpensa Airport provides assistance for passengers with disabilities and reduced mobility through its Sala Amica service. The program includes designated assistance points, accessible facilities, wheelchairs, and specialized equipment for boarding and disembarking. Passengers requiring assistance should notify their airline when booking, preferably at least 48 hours before departure.

Both terminals incorporate accessibility features, including lifts, accessible toilets, and tactile guidance systems. Certain lifts provide Braille controls and voice announcements for passengers with visual impairments. Dedicated waiting areas accommodate passengers who require assistance before security procedures, boarding, or onward travel after arrival.

SEA also operates an autism assistance initiative designed to familiarize passengers with airport environments before traveling. Eligible visitors can arrange a preparatory airport visit, subject to the program’s booking conditions.
 

How to Get to Milan Malpensa Airport

Milan Malpensa Airport can be reached from central Milan by train, airport shuttle bus, taxi, private transfer, or car. Travel times depend on the departure location, transport service, and road conditions. The airport also has connections with other cities in Lombardy and neighboring regions, making it accessible beyond Milan itself.

Getting to Milan Malpensa Airport by train

The Malpensa Express is one of the most convenient ways to reach Milan Malpensa Airport from central Milan. Operated by Trenord, the service connects both airport terminals with Milano Centrale and Milano Cadorna. Both routes also serve intermediate railway stations, allowing passengers to connect with regional services.

Trains from Milano Centrale reach Terminal 1 in approximately 51 minutes, while the journey from Milano Cadorna takes approximately 37 minutes. Services generally operate every 30 minutes on each route. From Milano Centrale, trains also stop at Milano Porta Garibaldi and Milano Bovisa Politecnico.

A standard one-way Malpensa Express ticket from Milan costs 15.00€, with special fares available for certain passenger categories. Tickets can be purchased online, through the Trenord application, or from authorized sales points. Travelers should verify the timetable and select the correct terminal before departure.

Getting to Milan Malpensa Airport by bus

Airport shuttle buses provide another direct connection between Milan Malpensa Airport and central Milan. Operators include Malpensa Shuttle and Autostradale, with departures from the area around Milano Centrale. Services use stops near Piazza IV Novembre and Via Sammartini, on the western side of the railway station.

The bus journey generally takes approximately 50-70 minutes, depending on road traffic, the selected terminal, and intermediate stops. Malpensa Shuttle operates services through Piazzale Lotto, while other routes may follow slightly different itineraries. Passengers should consult the operator’s published schedule before traveling.

Standard Malpensa Shuttle tickets between Milan and the airport cost 10.00€ for adults, with reduced fares for children and return-ticket options. Some airport coaches also connect Malpensa with Milano Lampugnano, Milan Linate Airport, and other regional destinations.

Getting to Milan Malpensa Airport by taxi

Licensed taxis provide direct transport between Milan and Milan Malpensa Airport. The official fixed fare for a journey between the airport and any address within the Municipality of Milan is 114.00€, including applicable motorway tolls. The fare applies to the entire vehicle rather than individually to each passenger.

Depending on traffic conditions, the journey generally takes approximately 45-70 minutes from central Milan. Private chauffeur services, known in Italy as NCC, can also be reserved in advance. These services provide prearranged transfers, with prices determined by the operator and the vehicle selected.

Getting to Milan Malpensa Airport by car

Drivers traveling from Milan can reach the airport using the A8 motorway toward Varese, followed by the SS336 expressway toward Malpensa. The airport is situated approximately 45-50 kilometers from central Milan by road, although the exact distance depends on the departure point and chosen route.

Milan Malpensa Airport provides several official short-term and long-term parking facilities, including covered and uncovered areas. Parking options include P1 Long Term, P2 Executive, P3 Express, and P4 Holiday near Terminal 1, together with P5 Easy and additional parking facilities serving Terminal 2.

Transfers Between Terminals and Other Destinations

Passengers transferring between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 can use a free interterminal shuttle bus, operating throughout the day and night. The terminals are also linked by rail, although ordinary railway ticket conditions apply. Travelers should allow sufficient time when changing terminals, especially if collecting and rechecking baggage.

Beyond Milan, the airport has road and rail connections with destinations such as Busto Arsizio, Saronno, Varese, Como, and the Lake Maggiore area. Some journeys require changes between trains or buses. Passengers continuing toward Switzerland or other northern Italian cities should verify the available connections before traveling.

Frequently Asked Questions about Milan Malpensa Airport

How far is Milan Malpensa Airport from central Milan?

The airport is approximately 45 kilometers northwest of Milan. Traveling to the city center generally takes 40-60 minutes by train or longer by road, depending on traffic.

What is the difference between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2?

Terminal 1 handles flights operated by numerous domestic and international airlines, including long-haul services. Terminal 2 is dedicated to easyJet flights. Both terminals have railway stations.

Is Milan Malpensa Airport open 24 hours a day?

Yes. The airport operates throughout the day and night, although individual shops, restaurants, lounges, and passenger services maintain their own opening hours.

Can passengers travel directly from Milano Centrale to Malpensa Airport?

Yes. Malpensa Express trains connect Milano Centrale directly with both passenger terminals. The journey to Terminal 1 takes approximately 51 minutes, with services generally departing every 30 minutes.

Is there a free shuttle between the airport terminals?

Yes. A free shuttle bus connects Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, operating throughout the day and night. Waiting times vary according to the operating period.

How much does a taxi from Milan to Malpensa Airport cost?

The official fixed taxi fare between the airport and any address within the Municipality of Milan is 114.00€ per vehicle, including applicable motorway tolls.

Is Milan Malpensa Airport the same as Milan Linate Airport?

No. Malpensa (MXP) is Milan’s principal intercontinental airport, approximately 45 kilometers northwest of the city. Linate (LIN) is a separate airport situated much closer to central Milan.