Sunday, March 9, 2025
Milan’s aviation sector is undergoing a significant transformation, with Linate Airport (LIN) emerging as the preferred choice over Malpensa (MXP). The recent expansion of the M4 metro line has further enhanced Linate’s accessibility, making it a more convenient option for travelers.
KLM Relocates Milan Operations to Linate
Effective March 30, 2025, KLM will cease all operations at Malpensa and operate exclusively from Linate Airport for flights to Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS). This shift reflects broader trends in air travel, where airlines are prioritizing urban-centric airports with better connectivity over larger but less accessible hubs.
Why Linate is Becoming Milan’s Go-To Airport
Malpensa remains an important international gateway, but passenger preference is increasingly leaning toward Linate, thanks to its closer proximity to the city center and enhanced metro access. Unlike Malpensa, which requires a longer transfer via train or bus, Linate allows for quicker and more efficient travel within Milan.
As air travel patterns continue to evolve, Linate’s rising prominence could influence future airline operations in Milan, potentially leading to further shifts in airport dynamics.
KLM will offer five daily flights from Linate to Amsterdam Schiphol, departing at the following scheduled times:
Flight Schedule: Linate to Amsterdam
| Departure Time | Route | Origin Airport | Destination Airport |
|---|---|---|---|
| 06:40 | Linate → Amsterdam | Linate (LIN) | Schiphol (AMS) |
| 11:00 | Linate → Amsterdam | Linate (LIN) | Schiphol (AMS) |
| 13:00 | Linate → Amsterdam | Linate (LIN) | Schiphol (AMS) |
| 16:50 | Linate → Amsterdam | Linate (LIN) | Schiphol (AMS) |
| 19:40 | Linate → Amsterdam | Linate (LIN) | Schiphol (AMS) |
This restructuring enables KLM to optimize its operations and enhance efficiency by consolidating all flights at a single Milan airport. The move also aligns with the competitive changes stemming from the ITA Airways (AZ) and Lufthansa (LH) merger.
In response to European Competition Commission regulations, ITA and Lufthansa were required to release 15 slots at Linate to promote competition. The distribution of these slots includes:
- EasyJet (U2): Awarded five slot pairs for routes to Brussels, Frankfurt, and Vienna.
- Air France/KLM (AF): Granted two slot pairs, enabling KLM to relocate its final Malpensa flight to Linate.
As reported by Tornos News, this slot reallocation bolsters Linate’s position as Milan’s primary international gateway, aligning with shifting airline strategies.
Unlike KLM, Air France (AF) will continue operating at both Malpensa and Linate. The airline is expanding its Milan-Paris (Charles de Gaulle) service by increasing its daily flights from nine to ten. A new midday departure at 12:20 from Linate will further strengthen Air France’s dual-airport operations in Milan.
Bottom Line
KLM’s exit from Malpensa reflects the ongoing shift of air traffic toward Linate, driven by improved connectivity and evolving airline strategies. The reallocation of slots fosters greater competition and reshapes Milan’s aviation market, positioning Linate as the city’s dominant international hub.
