Emirates Milan-Lima flight proposal sparks dispute with Italian airlines

A dispute has emerged regarding Emirates' proposal to launch a direct flight service between Milan Malpensa and Lima, Peru. The airline's expansion plans have met resistance from Italian carriers, including Ita Airways, Neos, and Aeroitalia.

Domestic airlines have formally requested that the Italian Civil Aviation Authority (Enac) and the Ministry of Infrastructure conduct a transparent investigation into the matter. These carriers are advocating for the concentration of passenger flows through Rome rather than Milan, citing national interest. The Milan-Lima route currently sees approximately 150,000 passengers annually, a figure double that of the Rome-Lima route.

Regional and local leaders have voiced opposition to blocking the new route. Lombardy Governor Attilio Fontana described attempts to limit the line as “absurd,” arguing that Malpensa has the right to host new connections to meet demand. Similarly, Milan Mayor Giuseppe Sala cautioned against domestic airlines obstructing the expansion, noting the importance of connectivity for the city.