What’s happening at Malpensa?
On September 10, 2026, Milan Malpensa International Airport (MXP) is experiencing significant disruption due to delays of up to 48 hours on Ryanair flights. This restrictive event has caused many passengers to be stranded within the airport spaces, with many people exhausted and in difficulty.
The exact reasons behind these delays have not yet been officially detailed, but the situation is causing serious inconvenience to both travelers and airlines, especially Ryanair.
Which flights and airports are at risk?
The event mainly affects Ryanair flights departing from or arriving at Malpensa (/airports/mxp/), one of northern Italy’s main hubs and a strategic base for many international and low-cost routes.
Ryanair flights (/airlines/fr/) involved are subject to significant delays, up to two days, with resulting cancellations and rescheduling.
Passengers’ rights according to EU261 regulation
When a delay or cancellation occurs, the European regulation EU261 establishes some fundamental rights for passengers:
- Assistance: free meals, drinks, and communications during the wait.
- Refund or re-routing: the possibility to choose between a ticket refund or an alternative flight to the final destination as soon as possible.
- Financial compensation: for delays over 3 hours or cancellations, compensation is provided, varying based on flight distance.
It should be noted that in cases of extraordinary events (e.g., extreme weather conditions, strikes uncontrollable by the airline) compensation may not be due, but assistance and refund remain guaranteed.
What to do at the airport: practical advice
For passengers stranded at Malpensa we recommend:
- Contacting Ryanair through their customer service for updated information and re-protection options.
- Keeping all travel documents and receipts for extra expenses, for possible refund requests.
- Visiting the Ryanair assistance desk or the airport info point /airports/mxp/ to gather information and support.
- Considering alternative transport options, such as flights from nearby airports (Orio al Serio, Linate), especially for urgent needs.
- If forced to overnight, ask if the airline or airport offers facilities or vouchers.
How to avoid further inconvenience
- Constantly monitor your flight status via official websites or airline apps.
- Arrive at the airport well in advance in case of re-routing or to contact staff.
Sources
Want to know if your next flight is at risk? Check your flight risk on FlightGuard.
