EasyJet launches monopoly-breaking Linate Fiumicino flights
The UK’s largest - and Italy’s third largest - airline, saw its inaugural flight connecting Milan Linate to Rome Fiumicino take off on a new route which was the result of anAGCM’s (the Italian competition authority) ruling which ordered an end to the Alitalia monopoly on the route. EasyJet was seen as the most effective airline to provide competition on the route bringing greater choice and benefits to consumers.
To celebrate this important milestone easyJet ceo Carolyn McCall hosted officials, politicians, aviation industry representatives and members of the region’s business community, for the unveiling of a special aircraft livery dedicated to the Linate-Fiumicino route.
EasyJet’s is widening consumer flight options between the two cities with a simple and well-structured service that meets the needs of those who commute between Rome and Milan. 
The new service will be operated by an Airbus A319 (right) with two frequencies each way per day initially increasing to five frequencies each way per day from 8 April.
Carolyn McCall, easyJet ceo, commenting from the inaugural flight event in Milan Linate: “EasyJet offers great value by making travel easy and affordable for business and leisure passengers alike with a unique and friendly service on Europe’s leading network.
“I’m extremely proud to celebrate this historic victory today. With the opening of this new and important route, along with the launch of flights between London Gatwick and Moscow last week, easyJet is playing a central role in opening up significant markets for European consumers, further strengthening our commitment as an airline operator and investor in the European transportation industry.”
Frances Ouseley, easyJet’s Italy director, said: “Our proposal for those flying between Rome and Milan is simple but comprehensive – we will provide efficient and high quality services with really affordable prices and in line with today’s consumer expectations.
“For those travelling on business, easyJet can decrease corporate travel expenses by between 30% and 50% in partnership with travel agencies. With flexible fares and a convenient schedule, our service makes the travel experience faster and comfortable with products such as fast track priority boarding, premium allocated seats onboard and the flexibility to change bookings at the last minute.
“We will do our best to ensure that the liberalisation of the Linate – Fiumicino route delivers concrete benefits for everyone. Today a new way to travel between Linate and Fiumicino is truly taking off.
“We are particularly proud to offer customers a high quality and affordable alternative during this tough recession and expect to carry up to 350,000 passengers annually on this route.”
EasyJet carried over 12.5 million passengers to, from and within Italy in 2012 – up 9.4% year on year. The airline has 24 aircraft based in Italy – 18 at Milan Malpensa (its second biggest base after London Gatwick) and six at Rome Fiumicino.
