Malpensa Airport Undergoes Major Runway Refurbishment, Linate Takes On Diverted Flights
Milan, March 17, 2026 – Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP) has commenced a significant two-month partial closure of one of its main runways for essential maintenance and modernization. Starting from the night of Monday, March 16, 2026, runway 35L, one of the two primary operational runways at the Varese-based airport, will be out of service until May 9, 2026. This extensive refurbishment project necessitates the diversion of a substantial number of flights to Milan Linate Airport (LIN).
Increased Operational Capacity at Linate
To accommodate the influx of diverted flights, the Italian Civil Aviation Authority (ENAC) has temporarily increased Milan Linate Airport’s operational capacity. While Linate’s standard capacity is 18 movements per hour, this has been temporarily raised by up to 8 additional movements per hour. This increase is exclusively for flights to and from Schengen destinations, operated by narrow-body aircraft. Currently, the actual utilization of this expanded capacity stands at an average of two additional movements per hour during specific time slots.
Essential Maintenance for Enhanced Safety and Efficiency
Giuseppe Pacilli, Deputy Post Holder for Infrastructure and Systems Design at SEA, the company managing Milan’s airports, emphasized the critical nature of these works. “Runways need to be refurbished every 20 years,” Pacilli stated. “We are adding improvements to ensure Malpensa remains at the forefront of aviation technology. This includes a new full-LED runway lighting system and an upgraded wastewater drainage system, crucial given ongoing climate change.”
The refurbishment primarily involves the complete resurfacing of the runway pavement and the adjacent taxiway surfaces. Additionally, the project includes the modernization of technological systems, specifically the Airfield Lighting System (AVL). These upgrades are integral to the infrastructure’s lifecycle, designed to maintain high safety standards and operational reliability over time.
Advanced Lighting and Monitoring Systems
A key aspect of the modernization is the complete replacement of the current lighting system with new LED lamps and the installation of a sophisticated new lighting monitoring system. The interventions will also extend to parts of the taxiways, requiring temporary adjustments to standard aircraft ground movement procedures. The works are being conducted continuously, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, underscoring the commitment to completing the project within the stipulated timeframe.
Impact on Travelers and Airport Operations
The partial closure of Malpensa’s runway and the subsequent flight diversions are expected to affect a significant number of travelers. Passengers flying through Milan during this period are advised to check their flight status with their respective airlines, as schedules and arrival/departure airports may have changed. While Linate’s increased capacity aims to mitigate disruptions, some delays and adjustments are anticipated.
This initiative is part of a broader strategy to ensure the long-term operational efficiency and safety of Milan’s airport infrastructure. By investing in these crucial upgrades, Malpensa aims to solidify its position as a leading European aviation hub, capable of handling future air traffic demands with enhanced security and environmental sustainability.
