Malpensa 2000, Milan's new futuristic airport, is finally opened, following long negotiations with the European Commission.

From October 25 1998, airplane companies belonging to non-European Union countries - including Twa, American, United, Delta, and Swissair-, are transferring all their flights from Milan Linate to the new airport in the Varese province, about 30 miles from Milano.

While Linate Airport is practically in Milano (a 10-minute ride), and connected by an efficient network of public transportation, getting to or getting off a plane in Malpensa 2000 can be quite a rough ride. Works are under way for the implementation of the existing highway for faster -and safer- taxi, bus, and private rides.

In the meantime, there is regular bus service for Piazza Castello or Stazione Centrale and an express train from Cadorna station to Malpensa (the one-way ticket costs around 9 US$). Of course, buses are much more convenient than taxis, that run at regular meter rates collecting up to $ 150 in fares...

European Community carriers will be allowed to leave 34% of their flights at Milan Linate Airport, while they must transfer 66% of their flights to Malpensa 2000. So, we definitely suggest American tourists to check where their flights will disembark, and what additional services your airline can offer you in terms of transportation to the city.

Model of Malpensa 2000 Airport, Milano

Malpensa 2000 became the fifth European hub, after Frankfurt, Paris, London and Amsterdam. These are its numbers:

• Traffic: 8.5 million passengers per year
• Parking: 15.000 spaces, 5000 of which in the near proximity of the airport buildings
• Departure area: divided in four areas -one reserved for Alitalia-; 186 check-in counters; 32 dedicated to passengers with carry-on baggage.
• Waiting areas: 50 stores, 15 restaurants, plus bank tellers, pharmacies, post offices, travel agencies, Vip lounges, business centers, spaces for art and cultural exhibits.
• Baggage handling: at full systems, it will process 14.600 pieces per hour
• Security checks: 100% of the luggage will be screened with state-of-the-art technology.