Ticket did not validate

Sounds like machine malfunction. If the inspector sold you a ticket and did not fine you, he/she may have been aware of the problem. When you validate to return to MXP, you will be using a different machine (green/white/red) and should have no problem. Could be that the yellow validation box is disconnected but hasn't been replaced yet.

There is usually another validation machine nearby. When the machine is working, it makes a definite clinking sound as it punches the ticket. Sometimes it just makes an imdentation. Sometimes the date and time are printed.

It's important to listen for the "kerchunk" when the ticket is inserted in the machine to ensure that it's stamped. If you don't hear that, you can try moving the ticket back and forth and some machines can be finicky. I always look at the ticket to see if the time and date have been imprinted. Also look at the digital display on the front of the machine to see if this shows a time and date. I've found that's usually a good indication that the machine is working. If the machine indicates "Out of Service" (might say something like "Non Funziona"), look for another machine.

One other thing that may work if the machine is not working, is to write the time and date on the ticket with a pen. In my experience, whether this will be accepted or not is at the whim of the Conductor.

If the ticket you purchased has not been stamped and you're travelling on the same route, then you should be able to use if for the return trip to the airport but be sure to validate prior to boarding the train. The pricing for train routes is calculated based on distance, so the same ticket probably wouldn't work (for example) on the Leonardo Express from Roma Termini to the airport.

Ticket inspector told me I could use same ticket in return trip, but
need to validate. Can I use my ticket or has it expired?

As long as your ticket has not been validated, it's valid for 60 days from the date of purchase.

Check your ticket:

• At the top left, under the word 'TRENORD', you will see, 'Utilizzare
  entro il' (use by) with a date (day/month/year)

  • Next to the word, TRENORD, you will see a green arrow, thus this is the way you want to insert the ticket into the machine.
  • When you insert the ticket in the validating machine, make sure you insert the ticket aligned toward the left of the slot.
  • Here is a photo of the new green, white & red validating machines you will see at most train stations: http://tinyurl.com/validating-machine-Italy
  • Notice the black arrow above the ticket slot on the photo link above.

Keep in mind that you will only need to validate Regionale train tickets prior to boarding the train (not freccia or Intercity tickets)

When you purchase a Regionale ticket, other than the one for the 'Malpensa Express', check the underside of the ticket & you will see (very faint grey letters) the word, 'CONVALIDA' (validation), with an arrow on each side of the word, this indicates how you should insert the ticket in the machine.

Have a wonderful trip!

I always look for the validation stamp on the ticket to make sure I did it right.