Low-cost airlines like Wizz Air are growing in popularity as more tourists search for clever ways to stretch their euros without compromising the pleasure of travel. Wizz Air provides one of the most affordable flying experiences accessible thanks to its constantly expanding network throughout Europe and beyond. But when I was flying with Wizz Air out of Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP), I wanted to investigate the trade-offs that come with cheap fares. As seen through the eyes of a frugal traveler, here is what the entire experience was like, from check-in to takeoff.
Where Does Wizz Air Operate at MXP?
The first thing to note is: Operating out of Milan Malpensa's Terminal 1 is Wizz Air. Since many low-cost airlines are transferred to secondary, under-equipped terminals, this is significant. This isn't true. Full-service and low-cost carriers are served by Terminal 1, MXP's main, contemporary terminal.
As soon as you enter the airport, you are greeted by large check-in spaces, lofty ceilings, and English and Italian signage. Terminal 1 is surprisingly clean and well-organized, which is a positive first impression for Wizz Air MXP Terminal passengers when compared to many other European airports that have seen better days.
Like the majority of low-cost airlines, Wizz Air places a great deal of responsibility on the passenger. This implies that in order to avoid additional fees, check-in must be completed online. You can download your boarding pass directly to your phone using the user-friendly mobile app. You will be charged a significant amount at the airport desk if you do not check in online.
However, if you need to check your luggage after checking in, you will still need to go to the baggage drop counter. The Wizz Air counters at MXP Terminal 1 are typically located in Zone 17, although it's advisable to check the monitors again when you arrive.
I strongly advise getting there two to three hours prior to your trip because lines can get long, especially for early morning flights.
When it comes to baggage allowance, Wizz Air is unreservedly tough. You can only bring one small personal item with a basic ticket, and it has to fit beneath the seat in front of you. You will need to purchase "Wizz Priority" or additional baggage limits for anything greater than a regular carry-on.
I observed gatekeepers carefully examining bag sizes and assessing fees for large items when I was traveling. My recommendation? Before you go for the airport, measure your bag. If in doubt, it is less expensive to pay for additional baggage in advance than to be caught off guard at the gate.
Although it can get crowded during periods of high travel demand, security at Terminal 1 is effective. The well-organized structure and the personnel who assisted in guiding passengers through the process with minimal misunderstanding were two things I found admirable.
There are numerous duty-free stores, cafes, dining options, and seating places after you pass security. Although Wizz Air has a reputation for being a low-key airline, Terminal 1 offers a somewhat luxurious pre-boarding experience.
I stopped into Caffè Milano for a quick sandwich and espresso, and the rates were reasonable for an airport. Fast food and sit-down eating are possibilities for people seeking something heavier.
While you wait for the gate to be announced, you can use the free Wi-Fi to catch up on emails and stream music.
At MXP, Wizz Air often uses bus boarding from lower-level gates, with boarding starting 30 to 40 minutes prior to departure. When you board the bus, especially if you're one of the first people on board, be ready for a little wait.
The boarding procedure is efficient and methodical. Those who have paid for Wizz Priority are summoned first, while those who haven't are placed in different lines. You will be assigned a seat at random if you didn't purchase one, so if you want to sit together, think about paying the little amount to choose your seat in advance.
Expect clean aircraft, no in-flight entertainment, and food and drink available for purchase. Wizz Air at MXP offers a simple yet functional onboard experience.
As long as you are ready, flying Wizz Air from Terminal 1 in Milan Malpensa is often a seamless and effective experience. The terminal itself has good amenities, clear signage, and staff who are used to handling high volumes of low-cost passengers. In other words, things proceed swiftly without becoming chaotic.
Wizz Air is honest about their stringent policies, though. Your trip on MXP can be as enjoyable as any other traditional airline, excluding the exorbitant ticket costs, if you abide by the rules, check in online, pack wisely, and arrive early.
Wizz Air and Milan Malpensa Terminal 1 make a surprisingly good combination for those who prefer to wing it and do their own airport travel. Therefore, you can be sure that your trip will get off to a good start whether you're heading to Barcelona, Budapest, or Bucharest.