World
Italian Airport Renaming Controversy
Explore the heated debate surrounding the renaming of an Italian airport, as controversy ensues over the decision to change its name. Learn about the historical, cultural, and political implications at play.
Millions of travelers pass through Italian airports every year, but interestingly, many may not be aware of the unique names these airports carry. For instance, Rome’s airport is named after the renowned artist and inventor, Leonardo da Vinci. Pisa’s airport pays tribute to the famous astronomer and physicist, Galileo Galilei. Palermo’s airport is named in honor of Giovanni Falcone and Paolo Borsellino, two prosecutors who bravely fought against the Mafia.
However, a recent decision to rename Milan’s main international airport has stirred up significant controversy. Milan Malpensa Airport has been renamed as International Airport Milan Malpensa — Silvio Berlusconi, in memory of the media tycoon and former Italian prime minister who passed away last year at the age of 86.
The renaming sparked protests from left-leaning lawmakers, led to the creation of memes, and even prompted an online petition with over 160,000 signatures to oppose the new designation. The decision attracted global attention, with some sarcastically suggesting names like “Bunga-Bunga Airport,” alluding to the scandalous parties hosted by Berlusconi.
The controversy began when the transportation minister, Matteo Salvini, a far-right League party leader and political ally of Berlusconi, announced the approval of the name change on July 5. Despite describing Berlusconi as a “great businessman, great Milanese, and great Italian,” the decision faced widespread criticism.
Reacting to the announcement, Silvia Roggiani, a national lawmaker from the center-left Democratic Party, stated, “Airports are undoubtedly named after people who have brought prestige to Italy. While Berlusconi was a significant entrepreneur and political figure, he remained a divisive personality, with supporters and opponents alike.”