Our Guide to Milans Airports: Malpensa, Linate, and Orio al Serio
Welcome to our comprehensive guide on Milan's airports. Milan, the fashion and financial capital of Italy, is served by three main airports. This guide provides detailed information about each airport, including their locations, transportation options, and facilities.
1. Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP)
Milan Malpensa Airport is the largest international airport serving the Milan metropolitan area. It's located about 49 kilometers (30 miles) northwest of central Milan.
Key Information:
- IATA Code: MXP
- ICAO Code: LIMC
- Terminals: 2 (Terminal 1 and Terminal 2)
- Annual Passengers: Approximately 28.7 million (pre-COVID-19 data, 2019)
Transportation Options:
- Train: The Malpensa Express connects the airport to Milan Central Station and other stations in Milan.
- Bus: Several bus companies operate services between Malpensa and Milan city center.
- Taxi: Available at both terminals, with a fixed fare to Milan city center.
- Car Rental: Multiple car rental agencies have offices at the airport.
Facilities:
- Numerous shops and duty-free areas
- Wide range of restaurants and cafes
- VIP lounges
- Free Wi-Fi
- Currency exchange and ATMs
- Left luggage service
2. Milan Linate Airport (LIN)
Milan Linate Airport is the city airport of Milan, located just 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) east of the city center. It mainly serves domestic and short-haul international flights.
Key Information:
- IATA Code: LIN
- ICAO Code: LIML
- Terminals: 1
- Annual Passengers: Approximately 9.2 million (pre-COVID-19 data, 2019)
Transportation Options:
- Bus: ATM buses connect the airport to Milan city center.
- Taxi: Available outside the arrivals area, with a fixed fare to Milan city center.
- Car Rental: Several car rental agencies operate at the airport.
Facilities:
- Shops and duty-free areas
- Restaurants and cafes
- VIP lounge
- Free Wi-Fi
- Currency exchange and ATMs
- Left luggage service
3. Orio al Serio International Airport (BGY)
Also known as Il Caravaggio International Airport or Bergamo Airport, this airport is located in the province of Bergamo, about 45 kilometers (28 miles) northeast of Milan. It's a major hub for low-cost carriers.
Key Information:
- IATA Code: BGY
- ICAO Code: LIME
- Terminals: 1
- Annual Passengers: Approximately 13.8 million (pre-COVID-19 data, 2019)
Transportation Options:
- Bus: Several bus companies operate services between the airport and Milan city center.
- Train: A shuttle bus connects the airport to Bergamo railway station, from where trains to Milan are available.
- Taxi: Available outside the terminal building.
- Car Rental: Multiple car rental agencies have offices at the airport.
Facilities:
- Shops and duty-free areas
- Restaurants and cafes
- VIP lounge
- Free Wi-Fi
- Currency exchange and ATMs
- Left luggage service
Comparison of Milan's Airports
| Feature | Malpensa (MXP) | Linate (LIN) | Orio al Serio (BGY) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Distance from Milan city center | 49 km | 7 km | 45 km |
| Main traffic type | International, long-haul | Domestic, short-haul international | Low-cost carriers, European flights |
| Annual passengers (2019) | 28.7 million | 9.2 million | 13.8 million |
| Number of terminals | 2 | 1 | 1 |
Private Jet Facilities at Milan's Airports
For travelers using private jets, Milan's airports offer varying levels of facilities and services. Here's a comparison of the private jet amenities at each airport:
1. Milan Linate Airport (LIN)
Linate Airport offers the best facilities for private jet passengers among Milan's airports:
- Dedicated Private Aviation Terminal: SEA Prime's Milano Prime terminal, opened in 2019, exclusively serves private and business aviation.
- Extensive Services: Includes concierge services, luxury lounges, meeting rooms, and direct ramp access for vehicles.
- Proximity to Milan: Being the closest airport to Milan's city center, it's the most convenient for business travelers.
- Handling Companies: Multiple specialized handlers for private jets, ensuring efficient and personalized service.
2. Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP)
Malpensa also caters to private jet travelers, though its facilities are not as extensive as Linate's:
- Business Aviation Terminal: A dedicated terminal for private flights, operated by SEA Prime.
- Services: Offers VIP lounges, conference rooms, and customs and immigration facilities.
- 24/7 Operations: Unlike Linate, Malpensa operates round the clock, which can be advantageous for some travelers.
3. Orio al Serio International Airport (BGY)
While primarily serving commercial flights, BGY does accommodate private jets:
- General Aviation Services: Basic handling services for private jets are available.
- Limited Dedicated Facilities: Compared to Linate and Malpensa, BGY has fewer specialized amenities for private jet passengers.
- Focus on Commercial Traffic: The airport's primary focus is on commercial flights, particularly low-cost carriers.
Conclusion
Milan's three airports offer travelers a variety of options depending on their destination, budget, and preferred location. Malpensa (MXP) serves as the primary international gateway, Linate (LIN) offers convenience for business travelers and short-haul flights, while Orio al Serio (BGY) caters to budget-conscious travelers and serves many European destinations. For private jet travelers, Linate Airport provides the most comprehensive facilities. Each airport is well-connected to Milan's city center, ensuring easy access to this vibrant Italian metropolis.