Navigating Malpensa International Airport: A Complete Guide
Welcome to Malpensa
Malpensa International Airport is located about 49 kilometres northwest of Milan. This airport is the primary and busiest airport in Milan. Maplsensa acts as a vital hub in Italy's tourism and aviation. The airport began its operation in 1948 and has two terminals. Twenty million passengers are welcomed each year by Mlapesa! Malpensa has a vast shopping collection and dining options to keep the passengers engaged. The best part is that the airport also has smooth transportation facilities to help travellers connect with the central city. Malpensas easy access and sufficient services made the airport one of the busiest airports in Milan!
History of Malpensa International Airport
Malpensa International Airport started its operations in the year 1948. Primarily it functioned as a military airfield and later it grew into Italy's topmost and busiest airports. Later the airport was expanded currently it owns two terminals dealing millions of passengers each year. Now it acts as the key hub for travel connecting Italy to many global destinations.
Airport Size and Usage
Malpensa airport is located at Milan’s prominent location and just 31 miles away from the city center. The airport spans over 2,000 hectares and includes two main terminals (Terminal 1 and Terminal 2). The airport has its busiest months from May to October coinciding with the peak season in Italy. The airport handles approximately 28 million passengers each year annually making it one of the busiest and major airports in Italy and Europe.
Arrival at the Airport
1. Terminals: Malpensa airport has two terminals making the passengers more convenient to travel. Terminal 1 (T1) handles the international flights and some of the domestic flights. And the Terminal 2 (T2) is used by low-cost carriers like EasyJet.
2. Immigration and Customs: After knowing the Terminal follow the signs toward the immigration control. If you are a non-European passenger, you'll need a pass through the border control where the passport will be subjected to a checking. Make sure that you have all the necessary documents required for immigration including the boarding pass and visa. After the immigration process, you can head to the baggage claim. If you have anything to declare, use the red channel and if you don't have anything to declare, just head to the green channel in the customs.
3. Ground Transportation: Malpensa has a huge range of transportation options to connect visitors to the city. If you are looking for a train, Malpensa Express connects with MIlans central station including Milano Centrale and Milano Cadorna. This train runs frequently offering a smooth journey to the travellers. Numerous bus lines can be seen connecting the airport with different parts of Milan and the nearby areas. If you are opting for taxis, put the taxi scams into your mind and go for official taxis! And lastly, if you prefer to explore Milan all by yourself go grab a car and wander around!
Departure from the Airport
1. Checking In: We would suggest you arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before your domestic flight and 3 hours before an international flight. You can spot the check-in desks for most of the airlines which are located in the main departure hall of the terminal. Also, you can make use of the self-service kiosks or online check-in facilities to save your precious time. Use the designated bag drop counters to drop your luggage after your check-in procedures.
2. Security Screening: After your check-in procedures, proceed to the security screening area. Get ready to unpack your bags if laptops, liquids, and metal items are there in your carry bags. Make sure that your liquids are in containers of 100ml or less and should be placed in a clear plastic container.
3. Duty-Free Shopping and Dining: When check-in procedures come to an end, you can find a huge array of duty-free shopping and dining options! Try the authentic Italian delicacies from Bistrot Milano. For a quick coffee and sandwich head to Panino Giusto and the fast food lovers can enjoy McDonald’s. If you are looking for cosmetics and spirits go to Dufry’s. Aelia Duty-Free is the best in perfumes, cosmetics, and luxury fashion items. For the tech-lovers, Tech2Go offers the latest gadgets and accessories. Purchase souvenirs from Feltrinelli as a memoir from your Italy trip. The shop offers a great selection of books and gift items.
4. Lounges: For a quick rejuvenation session after or before your flight make your way to the lounges Malpensa has to offer! If you are looking for good seating with refreshments, Wi-fi, and other amenities head to Casa Atelia Lounge. Another excellent lounge with similar facilities is the Sala Montale VIP Lounge.
5. Boarding: Always keep an eye on the flight information displayed on the screens and listen to the announcements to ensure that you arrive at your gate at the correct time. Also, make sure that you carry your boarding pass and identifications ready on time.
Flight Carriers Operating at Malpensa International Airport
Malpensa Airport is the hub for many international as well as domestic flights. For low-cost airlines, EasyJet is available in many European cities. You can find British Airways from Milan to connect UK and other places. If Germany is your destination, Lufthansa is operating there. For soaring to Paris or other global destinations, Air France is there.KLM is there for a link to Amsterdam and lastly, Iberia serving various Spanish Destinations. Qatar Airways is there to connect Milan with Doha and other places. Delta Air Lines and American Airlines provide direct flights to the United States. And lastly, Emirates is there for a luxurious trip to Dubai and beyond!
Tips for a Smooth Experience
Make use of the free Wi-Fi available at the airport and stay connected with your loved ones. While Italian is the official language, English is widely used at the airport. Malpensa Airport is giving comprehensive assistance to passengers with reduced mobility. ATMs and Currency Exchange offices are available in the Terminal if you are looking for currency exchange.
From Milan to the World
That is all about Malpensa International Airport. Next time when you are travelling to Milan, navigate all by yourself with our guide. Malpensa Airport is a synonym of innovation and modern innovations. Enjoy a smooth and seamless trip to Malpensa and turn your boring layover into a super engaging one! Happy Travels.
FAQs
Q: Is Malpensa a big airport?
A: Malpensa International is the largest among the three airports serving Milan.
Q: What is the main airport in Milan?
A: Malpensa International Airport is the main and most busiest airport in Milan.
Q: In which city is Malpensa?
A: Malpensa International Airport is located in Ferno, Varese, Italy.
Q: How far is Malpensa from the city?
A: Malpensa International Airport is 31 miles away from the city centers.