To analyse the performance of Milano Malpensa Airport over the last three
years, we need to focus on metrics such as passenger numbers, revenue,
costs, profitability, and customer satisfaction. Though detailed financial
reports for airports may be less accessible than those of airlines,
passenger traffic data and customer satisfaction surveys are readily
available for large international airports like Malpensa. Let’s explore each
of these factors step by step.
1. Passenger Numbers
Milano Malpensa is one of Italy's busiest airports, consistently ranking
among the top in terms of passenger traffic. The last three years have
been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, which saw a significant dip in
passenger numbers across the globe, including at Malpensa. According to
Statista, passenger numbers at Malpensa dropped dramatically in 2020,
reaching only 7.2 million passengers, down from 28.8 million in 2019.
In 2021, recovery started to take place with a rise to 9.6 million
passengers. This was still well below pre-pandemic levels but signified a
gradual return to normalcy. The trend continued in 2022, with further
growth in passenger numbers to around **19 million**. However, these
figures still lagged behind 2019 due to the slow pace of recovery in
international travel.
The introduction of 3D X-ray scanners as part of enhancing security
measures in 2023 is expected to boost passenger confidence, contributing
to further increases in traffic as travel resumes to pre-pandemic levels.
2. Revenue
Like other airports, Malpensa's revenue relies heavily on passenger traffic,
landing fees, retail concessions, and services offered within the airport.
According to Aeroporti di Milano’s (SEA Group) financial report, total
revenue for 2020 plummeted due to reduced traffic. In 2019, SEA Group,
which operates both Malpensa and Linate airports, reported revenues of
over **€707 million**, but this dropped by approximately **63%** in 2020
to **€260 million**. Revenue began to recover in 2021 and 2022,
following the increased air traffic. In 2022, total revenue was still
considerably lower than the 2019 figure but was approaching **€400
million**.
A significant portion of Malpensa’s recovery can be attributed to cargo
operations. While passenger traffic was slow to return, cargo volume
increased, as Milan is a crucial hub for logistics and freight, particularly
with connections to Asia.
3. Costs
Operational costs for airports, including maintenance, staffing, and
security upgrades, are significant, and COVID-19 compounded these
challenges by introducing new health and safety protocols. The
introduction of 3D X-ray scanners, while enhancing security, also
contributed to capital expenditures. SEA Group invested heavily in
upgrading security infrastructure across Malpensa and Linate, improving
long-term operational efficiencies but increasing short-term costs.
By mid-2022, costs had stabilized as passenger traffic increased, allowing
Malpensa to gradually spread operational expenses across a larger
volume of flights and passengers.
4. Profitability
Profitability for Malpensa, like other airports, is largely dependent on
passenger volume, cargo throughput, and ancillary revenue from retail
and services. The significant drop in passenger numbers in 2020 led to
negative operating results. According to the 2021 SEA Group financial
report, the group reported losses of **€128 million** in 2020, driven by
the pandemic and fixed operational costs. By 2021, although losses
continued, they were lower, as revenue recovered.
As of 2022, profitability had yet to return to pre-pandemic levels but was
on a clear upward trajectory. With the introduction of 3D X-ray scanners
enhancing security and creating a safer environment for travel, there is
optimism that profitability will improve further as passenger confidence
returns.
5. Customer Satisfaction
Customer satisfaction is a key performance indicator for airports,
reflecting passenger experiences with services, wait times, and overall
airport operations. Milano Malpensa has generally received mixed reviews
in terms of passenger satisfaction. According to Skytrax, the airport is
often praised for its retail options but criticized for long wait times at
security checkpoints.
The installation of 3D X-ray scanners is expected to address some of these
complaints. These new scanners allow passengers to keep liquids and
electronic devices in their hand luggage, significantly speeding up the
screening process. Initial feedback from passengers indicates that this
change has had a positive impact on the overall experience, reducing
frustration at security lines and improving perceptions of efficiency.
Conclusion
In summary, Milano Malpensa Airport’s performance over the last three
years has been shaped by the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and
the subsequent recovery. Passenger numbers and revenue saw steep
declines in 2020 but have been gradually recovering, with 2022 marking a
turning point. Operational costs remain high due to the introduction of
new security technologies, such as 3D X-ray scanners, but these are likely
to pay off in terms of improved customer satisfaction and operational
efficiency. Although profitability is still below pre-pandemic levels,
Malpensa is well-positioned for continued recovery, driven by the return of
international travel and enhancements in security and passenger
experience.
For detailed financial reports, you can refer to the SEA Group's annual
reports, which provide a comprehensive breakdown of performance
metrics for both Malpensa and Linate airports.
