Frankfurt am Main (FRA)
Airport Overview
Frankfurt Airport (officially Frankfurt Main Airport per the German Aeronautical Information Publication; German: Flughafen Frankfurt am Main) is Germany's largest international airport and one of Europe's most strategically important aviation hubs. Operated by Fraport AG, a publicly listed company headquartered at the airport itself, FRA serves as the primary hub for the Lufthansa Group, including Lufthansa, Lufthansa CityLine, Lufthansa City Airlines, Discover Airlines, and Lufthansa Cargo. Located approximately 12 km southwest of Frankfurt city center in the state of Hesse, the airport covers an expansive 2,300 hectares (5,683 acres) and is Germany's largest employment site, with around 80,000 workers from over 114 countries.
In 2024, Frankfurt Airport handled 61,564,957 passengers β an increase of 3.7% compared to 2023 (59.3 million) β ranking it 6th in Europe by passenger volume (after Istanbul, London Heathrow, Paris CDG, Amsterdam Schiphol, and Madrid Barajas) and 22nd worldwide. A total of 99 airlines operated flights to 311 destinations in 98 countries. Frankfurt stands out as the world's leading airport for hub connectivity, offering more direct connecting flight options to transfer passengers than any other airport globally. Cargo is equally significant: FRA handled 2.1 million metric tonnes of freight in 2024 (+6.2% year-on-year), making it Europe's largest cargo hub. There were 440,853 aircraft movements in 2024.
The airport opened its first modern facilities in 1936 and was substantially expanded post-World War II. Terminal 1, the older and larger of the two main passenger terminals, opened in its current form in 1972 and has been expanded multiple times, reaching a theoretical capacity of 50 million passengers per year across Concourses A, B, C, and Z. Terminal 2 was added in 1994 and handles up to 15 million passengers annually across Concourses D and E. A third terminal (Terminal 3) is under construction, with the first phase β including Concourses 3H and 3J β expected to open by 2026, adding capacity for 15 million more passengers per year at an estimated cost of β¬3 billion. The airport also features the world-renowned Lufthansa First Class Terminal, a standalone 1,800 sq meter private facility exclusively for Lufthansa First Class passengers.
Despite still sitting 12.7% below its pre-pandemic 2019 peak of 70.5 million passengers, Frankfurt's recovery is steady and its long-term position as a premier intercontinental hub is undisputed. Fraport CEO Dr. Stefan Schulte has, however, raised concerns about Germany's high government-imposed airport charges making FRA increasingly expensive for airlines compared to rival European hubs β a structural challenge as the airport eyes its next growth phase. July 2024 was the busiest month of the year, with over 213,000 passengers counted on the peak day of 25 July.
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Terminals & Gates
Terminal 1 β Star Alliance Hub
Terminal 1, opened in its current configuration in 1972 and expanded multiple times since, is the largest and older of the two main terminals. At 420 metres long on the landside, it is divided into four concourses and handles approximately 50 million passengers per year. It is the home of Lufthansa and all Star Alliance member airlines, and is directly integrated with both rail stations beneath it.
Terminal 1 is structured on three levels: Level 2 (Departures β check-in, security, duty-free, departures gates), Level 1 (Arrivals β baggage claim, customs, ground transport), and Level 0 (Distribution level β rail stations, inter-terminal SkyLine, parking access). Key concourses:
- Concourse A: Schengen and non-Schengen flights; includes A-Plus extension (800 metres, 40 gates). Home to Lufthansa First Class Lounge (Gate A13).
- Concourse Z: Above Concourse A; non-Schengen (extra-EU) flights. Features Lufthansa Senator Lounge (Gate Z50, widely regarded as the best senator lounge at FRA).
- Concourse B: Non-Schengen flights; home to several Lufthansa Business Lounges (Gates B24βB28, B44βB48). Access to the Fernbahnhof (ICE) is from this concourse.
- Concourse C: Schengen flights; access to Airport City Mall (bottom level), including the only airport supermarket in Germany open on Sundays.
Airlines in Terminal 1: Lufthansa and all Star Alliance partners β United Airlines, Air Canada, Singapore Airlines, Turkish Airlines, LOT Polish Airlines, Ethiopian Airlines, Scandinavian Airlines, Austrian Airlines (SWISS, Austrian also use T1), Aegean Airlines, Croatia Airlines, and many more.
Lounges in Terminal 1:
- Lufthansa First Class Lounge (T1, Concourse A near Gate A13) β First Class / HON Circle only.
- Lufthansa Senator Lounge (T1, Concourses A, B, Z) β Star Alliance Gold, Senator members, Business Class.
- Lufthansa Business Lounge (T1, Concourses A, B) β Business Class, Frequent Traveller, Star Alliance Gold.
- Lufthansa Welcome Lounge (T1, Landside, Arrivals Area B) β For Lufthansa/Star Alliance Business and First arrivals; open 05:00β13:00.
- DB Lounge (T1, Landside near DB Station) β Deutsche Bahn First Class ticket holders.
- Luxx Lounge (T1, Landside between Concourses B and C, Gallery Level) β Priority Pass, LoungeKey, pay-per-use; open 06:30β21:30.
Facilities: Free WiFi, extensive duty-free (including the largest duty-free outlet in the airport at Pier Z, ~2,000 sq m), Heinemann Duty Free, Airport City Mall, 140+ shops, 50+ restaurants/cafΓ©s, gaming zones (Gaming World in Concourses A and Z, free arcade games 00:00β23:59), Movie World, medical center (Arrivals Level), pharmacy, ATMs, currency exchange, prayer room, children's play area.
Connectivity: Connected via the SkyLine people mover (free, departs every 2β3 minutes) to Terminal 2. SkyLine stops: T1 Concourse A/Z, T1 Concourse B, T1 Concourse C, Terminal 2. Journey T1 to T2: approximately 5β7 minutes.
Terminal 2 β oneworld and SkyTeam
Terminal 2 opened in 1994 and has a theoretical capacity of 15 million passengers per year. It is divided into Concourses D and E and primarily serves airlines of the oneworld and SkyTeam alliances, plus several unaffiliated carriers. There is no direct rail connection β passengers use the SkyLine from T1 or the airside connector corridor between T1 Concourse C and T2 Concourse D (non-public).
- Concourse D (Schengen): JAL Sakura Lounge (Level 3, Gate D26), open to JAL/oneworld premium passengers.
- Concourse E: Emirates Lounge (Level 3), Primeclass Lounge (T2's newest lounge, opened 2018, accessible via Priority Pass).
Airlines in Terminal 2: oneworld carriers β American Airlines, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, Finnair, Japan Airlines, Qatar Airways, Royal Air Maroc, Royal Jordanian. SkyTeam carriers β Air France, Delta Air Lines, KLM, Korean Air, Vietnam Airlines, China Airlines, Czech Airlines, Saudia. Unaffiliated: Emirates, China Southern, Air Serbia.
Lounges in Terminal 2: Emirates Lounge (Concourse E, Level 3), Japan Airlines Sakura Lounge (Concourse D, Level 3), Primeclass Lounge (Concourse E, Priority Pass). Note: British Airways, American Airlines, and other oneworld carriers do not maintain dedicated lounges at T2 FRA β their premium passengers use shared agreement lounges or pay-per-access facilities.
Facilities: Shopping plaza Level 2, duty-free, 30+ F&B outlets, smoking areas on Levels 2 and 3, ATMs, currency exchange, prayer room.
Lufthansa First Class Terminal
The Lufthansa First Class Terminal (FCT) is one of the most exclusive airport facilities in the world β a standalone private terminal approximately 1,800 sq meters in size, located adjacent to Terminal 1 (a 3β5 minute walk from Terminal 1 Arrivals, or reachable by dedicated Mercedes/Porsche transfer from the aircraft). It is open daily 05:30β22:00 exclusively to Lufthansa First Class passengers and their traveling companions.
- Private check-in, security, immigration, and customs β zero queue experience.
- Fine dining with award-winning Γ la carte menu and wine cellar with 130+ whiskies.
- 5 private office units with WiFi (70+ Mbps), phone, fax.
- Quiet rooms with day beds, spacious shower suites (including bathtub options), Cigar Lounge.
- Dedicated limousine transfer directly to the aircraft at boarding time (Mercedes-Benz or Porsche S-Class across the tarmac).
- Heinemann Duty Free boutique on-site.
- Access: Lufthansa First Class ticket holders and travelers flying SWISS or Austrian Airlines in First Class. Companions must hold a boarding pass for the same flight.
Transportation Guide
Getting from Frankfurt Airport to the City
Frankfurt Airport enjoys one of Europe's most sophisticated transport connections. The airport has two railway stations built beneath Terminal 1: the Regionalbahnhof (regional/S-Bahn station) and the Fernbahnhof (long-distance ICE/IC station). This makes FRA unique among European airports β it is the only airport in Europe directly integrated into Germany's high-speed ICE rail network, allowing passengers to travel directly to cities like Cologne, Berlin, Munich, and Hamburg without changing trains. Both stations are accessed from Terminal 1 Concourse B, Level 0. Terminal 2 passengers must first use the SkyLine people mover to reach Terminal 1.
S-Bahn (Suburban Train) β Lines S8 and S9
The S8 and S9 are the fastest and most cost-effective public transport connection between FRA and Frankfurt city center. Both lines depart from the Frankfurt Flughafen Regionalbahnhof (Regional Station, Terminal 1) every 15 minutes during the day.
- S8 operates 24 hours daily (including overnight); S9 operates approximately 05:00β01:00.
- Journey time: 11β15 minutes to Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof (Central Station); approximately 25β30 minutes to Konstablerwache (city center).
- Fare (RMV network, 2024β2025): β¬5.70 per adult one-way (Preisstufe 2). Children aged 6β14: β¬3.35; under 6: free.
- RMV Day Ticket: Available for approx. β¬11.40 (all Frankfurt zones); valid for unlimited travel on S-Bahn, U-Bahn, trams, and buses throughout the day.
- Important: Ticket must be purchased before boarding (at RMV ticket machines on the platform). Travelling without a validated ticket risks a β¬60 on-the-spot fine.
- Luggage: Bikes require a separate β¬3.00 bike ticket. Large suitcases are permitted in designated sections.
Long-Distance Train (ICE/IC) β Fernbahnhof
The Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbahnhof (Long-Distance Station, Terminal 1) provides direct Deutsche Bahn (DB) ICE connections to major German cities and international destinations. This is highly convenient for passengers connecting from other parts of Germany, particularly the Rhine-Ruhr region.
- Key ICE destinations: Cologne (~50 min), DΓΌsseldorf (~1h 15min), Berlin (~3h 10min), Munich (~3h 10min), Hamburg (~3h 45min), Stuttgart (~45min).
- Lufthansa Express Rail (AIRail): Passengers can check in their baggage at the Frankfurt Airport DB station up to 23 hours in advance and travel to Cologne or Stuttgart as though it were a "flight segment" β a unique European offering.
- Fares: Variable; ICE Frankfurt Hbf to Cologne from approx. β¬29ββ¬89 depending on booking date and class. Tix available at DB.de or the DB counter in the Fernbahnhof.
Public Bus
Several bus lines serve FRA, though they are slower and less practical than the S-Bahn for most passengers.
- Line 61: Connects Terminal 1 to Frankfurt-SΓΌdbahnhof (South Station) and Sachsenhausen district. Every 30 minutes; journey ~40 minutes. Fare: β¬5.70 (same RMV tariff). Tickets purchasable from the driver with small change, or at terminal machines.
- Line 62: Connects Terminal 1 to Schwanheim district.
- Lines 77, 72, 58: Connect to various Frankfurt neighborhoods; require RMV ticket.
- Night Buses (81, 7): Operate when S9 is not running (roughly 01:00β05:00).
- Operating hours: Line 61 runs approximately 04:09β00:39 on weekdays, with slightly shorter weekend service.
Taxi
Official taxi stands are located outside the Arrivals exits of both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. German taxis are regulated and metered β no negotiation required.
- Base fare (Frankfurt): β¬3.80 (day) / β¬4.50 (night, 22:00β06:00).
- Per km rate: Approximately β¬2.00ββ¬2.30 per km depending on time of day.
- To Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof (Central Station): Approximately β¬28ββ¬40; 20β30 minutes depending on traffic.
- To Frankfurt city center / Sachsenhausen: Approximately β¬35ββ¬50.
- To Frankfurt Messe (exhibition center): Approximately β¬28ββ¬38; 15β25 minutes.
- Payment: Cash and major credit/debit cards accepted. Not all drivers accept cards β confirm before starting the journey.
Ride-Hailing (Uber / FREE NOW / Bolt)
Uber, FREE NOW (formerly mytaxi), and Bolt all operate at FRA. Pickup points are in designated rideshare areas in the parking structures near each terminal β follow app instructions for the exact pickup zone. Prices may be comparable or slightly above metered taxis depending on surge pricing. Estimated cost to city center: β¬30ββ¬50.
Car Rental
All major international car rental brands have counters in the Arrivals halls of both terminals: Hertz, Avis, Europcar, Sixt, Budget, Enterprise, National, and Alamo, among others. Rental cars from approximately β¬28ββ¬45/day for a compact economy class vehicle. International driving license required for non-EU visitors. Minimum age 21 (18 for some categories). Deposits of β¬500ββ¬2,000 required.
Hotel Shuttles
Hotels connected directly to the terminal (Sheraton, Marriott, Hilton, Hilton Garden Inn) require no shuttle. Hotels in the Gateway Gardens area (Hyatt Place, Moxy, Hampton Inn, Holiday Inn) provide complimentary shuttles every 20β30 minutes. Steigenberger Airport Hotel runs a shuttle every 20 minutes from Terminal 1 Arrivals, 24 hours a day.
| Transport | Time to City Center | Price (approx.) | Frequency | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| S-Bahn S8/S9 | 11β25 min | β¬5.70 adult one-way | Every 15 min | S8: 24h; S9: 05:00β01:00 |
| ICE Train (to Hbf) | ~10 min (same line) | β¬5.70+ (RMV) or ICE fare | Multiple daily | 05:00β23:00+ |
| Bus Line 61 | ~40 min | β¬5.70 | Every 30 min | 04:09β00:39 |
| Taxi (metered) | 20β30 min | β¬28ββ¬50 | On demand, 24/7 | 24/7 |
| Uber / FREE NOW | 20β30 min | β¬30ββ¬55 | On demand | 24/7 |
| Car Rental | 15β25 min (self-drive) | From β¬28/day | N/A | 24/7 (most desks) |
| Private Transfer | 20β30 min | β¬55ββ¬90 | Pre-booked | 24/7 |
Hotels Near the Airport
Hotels Directly Connected to the Airport (The Squaire)
The Squaire is Frankfurt Airport's iconic "floating" commercial and hotel complex built directly above the long-distance train station (Fernbahnhof), architecturally integrated with Terminal 1 via an enclosed pedestrian bridge. It houses four major hotels directly connected to Terminal 1 β no shuttle required.
- Sheraton Frankfurt Airport Hotel & Conference Center (5-star) β The flagship airport hotel, directly connected to Terminal 1. 784 rooms and suites including Club Level. Rates from approximately β¬140ββ¬280/night. Features 3 restaurants (including Taverne, with German/seasonal cuisine), 2 bars, wellness/fitness center, sauna, and 58 meeting rooms for up to 1,200 delegates. Views of the runways available from premium floors. Marriott Bonvoy property.
- Frankfurt Airport Marriott Hotel (5-star) β Physically adjacent to the Sheraton, also connected to Terminal 1 via walkway. Combined Sheraton/Marriott complex has 1,000+ rooms. Rates from approximately β¬160ββ¬300/night. Business-oriented with multiple dining options.
- Hilton Frankfurt Airport (5-star) β Located in The Squaire, indoor walking distance to Terminal 1 (5β10 min walk). Modern light-filled atrium design. Rates from approximately β¬180ββ¬260/night. Excellent Club Lounge, breakfast buffet, gym.
- Hilton Garden Inn Frankfurt Airport (4-star) β Also in The Squaire, more affordable sibling to the Hilton. Rates from approximately β¬120ββ¬220/night. Free WiFi, 24/7 reception, gym.
Hotels Near the Airport (Gateway Gardens / 5β10 min)
- Hyatt Place Frankfurt Airport (4-star) β Located in Gateway Gardens office district, approximately 4-minute drive from the terminals. Free WiFi, 24/7 reception and gym. Rates from β¬90ββ¬170/night. Shuttle available; also walkable to Terminal 2 in ~15 minutes or one stop on S-Bahn.
- Steigenberger Airport Hotel Frankfurt (4-star) β Approximately 900 m from Terminal 2. Complimentary shuttle every 20 minutes, 24/7. Rates from β¬110ββ¬200/night. Full-service hotel with spa and multiple restaurants.
- Moxy Frankfurt Airport (3-star / Marriott budget brand) β Gateway Gardens area. Trendy, affordable. Rates from β¬75ββ¬130/night. Shuttle to terminals. Popular with younger travelers.
- Hampton by Hilton Frankfurt Airport (3-star) β Free shuttle, approximately 900 m from Terminal 1. Free breakfast included. Rates from β¬90ββ¬160/night.
- Park Inn by Radisson Frankfurt Airport (3-star) β ~800 m from Terminal 2. Soundproofed rooms, gym. Free shuttle. Rates from β¬70ββ¬130/night.
- Holiday Inn Frankfurt Airport (4-star, IHG) β ~800 m walk to Terminal 2. Free shuttle. Rates from β¬100ββ¬180/night. Good for Terminal 2 users.
Airside Transit Hotel
MY CLOUD Transit Hotel β Located airside in Terminal 1's non-Schengen transit zone (near Gate Z25), making it accessible without passing through immigration. Purpose-built for passengers with layovers of 2β8+ hours. Offers private sleep pods/rooms. Rates from approximately β¬60ββ¬110 for a 4β8 hour stay. Important: Access is limited to passengers with a boarding pass for an international (non-Schengen) departure β you cannot access this hotel on a landside basis.
---Parking Options & Rates
Parking Overview
Frankfurt Airport offers a comprehensive range of parking options across both terminals, operated directly by Fraport AG. Pre-booking online is available and strongly recommended, especially during peak summer travel season (JulyβAugust) and trade fair periods at Messe Frankfurt. Payment at automated pay stations accepts cash and all major credit/debit cards. Salik-equivalent systems are not applicable (Germany); German Autobahn toll systems do not apply to airport access roads.
Terminal Parking β Short/Medium Term (P2, P3 at T1 / P8, P9 at T2)
| Duration | Terminal 1 (P2/P3) | Terminal 2 (P8/P9) |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 30 min | β¬3.00 | β¬3.00 |
| Up to 1 hour | β¬7.00 | β¬8.00 |
| Per hour thereafter | β¬7.00 | β¬8.00 |
| 1 day maximum | β¬42.00 | β¬48.00 |
| Each additional day | β¬42.00 | β¬48.00 |
| 7 days (online booking) | β¬122.00 | β¬145.00 |
Business Parking β Terminal 1 (P1/P4, Level 1)
Extra-wide reserved spaces closest to Terminal 1 entrances. Reserved row assigned at booking. Price: from β¬39.90 per day (online pre-booking only). Ideal for business travelers valuing the shortest walk to the terminal. EV charging stations available at P2 Level 14 (Row 1406) and P9 Level U3 (Row U323); electricity billed separately via RFID/QR code.
Holiday Parking β Long Stay (from 7 days)
Two locations: Holiday Parking Nord (Car Park Gateway Gardens) and Holiday Parking SΓΌd (Car Park Terminal 3 area). Accessible by free shuttle bus to terminals. Not suitable for passengers with reduced mobility (long walk to shuttle).
| Duration | Holiday Parking |
|---|---|
| 7 days | from β¬68 |
| 14 days | from β¬98 |
| 21 days | approx. β¬130ββ¬145 |
Drop-Off / Short Stop (Free Up to 10 Minutes)
Free short-stop drop-off areas exist at both terminals: P35/P39 at Terminal 1 and P17/P18/P19 at Terminal 2 β free for up to 10 minutes, twice per calendar day. After 10 minutes: β¬2.50 for up to 15 min, β¬5.00 for up to 30 min, β¬15.00 for up to 60 min. Short-term parking lot P31 at Terminal 1 allows pick-ups/drop-offs with up to 3 hours free twice per day (use call button at entrance).
Park, Sleep & Fly
Fraport offers a package including terminal parking (up to 15 days) plus one overnight stay at the IntercityHotel Frankfurt Airport, Frankfurt Airport Marriott Hotel, or Sheraton Frankfurt Airport Hotel. Packages from approximately β¬199 per vehicle. Ideal for long-haul travelers.
EV Charging & Special Notes
- EV charging available without reservation at Terminal 1 P2 Level 14 and Terminal 2 P9 Level U3. Electricity billed separately via RFID card, QR code, or SMS.
- LPG (Autogas) vehicles are not permitted in Terminal 1 or Terminal 2 underground garages. LPG users: use Short-Term Parking P31 (T1) or Holiday Parking for stays of 3+ days.
- Natural gas (CNG) vehicles are permitted in all parking areas.
- Maximum entrance height for all terminal garages: 2.10 m. Higher vehicles must use Bus Parking P36.
- Women's parking areas: T1 P1 Row 126, T1 P5 Row 326, T1 P4 Row 225 β better lit, security-enhanced.
- Motorcycle parking: Free at Terminal 1 Arrivals level, far end of Section C.
Services & Facilities
WiFi
Frankfurt Airport provides free unlimited WiFi throughout all terminals (Terminal 1, Terminal 2, and the First Class Terminal). Connect to the network named "Frankfurt Airport" and follow the on-screen registration steps. Registration is simple and requires no German phone number or credit card. Speeds are generally adequate for email, browsing, and standard video calls. High-speed premium WiFi is available for purchase via Deutsche Telekom hotspot for streaming-heavy use. Lufthansa lounges use a dedicated Telekom LH-Lounge network (free for all lounge guests).
Lounges
Terminal 1 (Star Alliance / Lufthansa): Lufthansa operates one of the most extensive lounge networks in Europe at FRA, with multiple tiered facilities:
- Lufthansa First Class Terminal (standalone, near T1) β Exclusively for LH/SWISS/Austrian First Class passengers. Day beds, fine dining, Cigar Lounge, private showers (incl. bathtubs), personal assistant, limousine transfer to aircraft. Open 05:30β22:00.
- Lufthansa First Class Lounge (T1, Concourse A, Gate A13) β First Class and HON Circle members. Full dining, showers, quiet rooms. Open 05:15β22:00.
- Lufthansa Senator Lounge (T1, Concourses A, B, Z) β Star Alliance Gold and Senator cardholders, Business Class passengers. Showers, hot food buffet, open 05:15β22:00.
- Lufthansa Business Lounge (T1, Concourses A, B) β Business Class, Frequent Traveller, Star Alliance Gold. Buffet food, drinks, showers. Open 05:15β22:00.
- Lufthansa Welcome Lounge (T1, Landside, Arrivals Area B) β For arriving First/Business Class on select LH long-haul flights. Showers, breakfast. Open 05:00β13:00.
- Luxx Lounge (T1, Landside between B and C, Gallery Level) β Priority Pass, LoungeKey, pay-per-use (~β¬36ββ¬50). Showers, buffet, bar. Open 06:30β21:30.
- DB Lounge (T1, near Fernbahnhof) β Deutsche Bahn first-class ticket holders and BahnComfort status members.
Terminal 2: Emirates Lounge (Concourse E, Level 3), Japan Airlines Sakura Lounge (Concourse D, Level 3, near Gate D26), Primeclass Lounge (Concourse E, Priority Pass/pay-per-use).
Shopping
Frankfurt Airport has approximately 300 shops, restaurants, and service outlets across both terminals, occupying 35,000 sq meters of retail floor space. Highlights include:
- Heinemann Duty Free β Main duty-free operator. Largest outlet at Pier Z (~2,000 sq m), also present throughout T1 and T2. Perfumes, cosmetics, spirits, tobacco, electronics, confectionery.
- Luxury brands: Hermès, Burberry, Versace, Swarovski, Thomas Sabo, Montblanc.
- German specialty: Birkenstock, Falke socks, van Laack (German high-end fashion), Tchibo, and a well-stocked German supermarket (T1 Concourse C, Airport City Mall, open 7 days including Sundays).
- Click & Collect: Duty-free purchases can be pre-ordered online and collected airside, saving browsing time.
Dining
Over 50 food and beverage outlets in each terminal. Highlights include: Goethe Bar (named after Frankfurt's famous poet, T1), a mini Bavarian beer garden (T1), Vapiano (Italian, multiple locations), McDonald's, Burger King (airside and landside), multiple German bakeries. Asian cuisine options are available airside. Sit-down restaurants like those in The Squaire (accessible from T1) include higher-quality dining. Meal prices range from approximately β¬8ββ¬15 for fast food to β¬25ββ¬50+ for sit-down meals. Several 24-hour options are available, particularly in Terminal 1 Arrivals (food court).
Medical Services
A 24/7 medical center is located in Terminal 1 on the Arrivals level. Pharmacies are located in both terminals (Terminal 1 Departures Level and Terminal 2). For medical emergencies: call 112 (German emergency services). Airport medical staff can assist with a broad range of issues including minor injuries, medications, and travel health consultations.
Family Facilities
Baby care rooms and nursing areas are available in both terminals. Family priority lanes exist at most security checkpoints β look for "family" lane signage. Children's play areas are located in Terminal 1 (various concourses). The airports's Gaming World (free arcade games in T1 Concourses A and Z) is popular with older children. Strollers may be checked at the gate for free on most airlines.
Accessibility (PRM Services)
All platforms, terminals, and trains serving FRA are wheelchair-accessible. PRM (Passengers with Reduced Mobility) assistance must be requested at least 48 hours in advance from your airline. Dedicated PRM drop-off areas, wide-gate security lanes, and elevators connect all terminal levels. Women's-only parking areas with enhanced security are located at P1 Row 126, P5 Row 326, and P4 Row 225 in Terminal 1.
Currency Exchange & ATMs
Currency exchange counters (Reisebank and others) are distributed throughout Arrivals and Departures in both terminals. ATMs are plentiful in landside and airside areas. European Central Bank rates apply via ATM; currency exchange bureau rates will be less favorable. Multi-currency cards (Wise, Revolut) provide the best conversion rates at ATMs.
Luggage Storage (Left Luggage)
Consigna operates secure left-luggage counters in both terminals. Located in the Arrivals areas. Rates: approximately β¬6ββ¬10 per item for the first 24 hours; reduced rates for subsequent days. Useful for passengers wishing to explore Frankfurt city during a long layover before returning for a later departure.
Smoking
Smoking is strictly prohibited in all terminal buildings except in designated smoking lounges. Smoking rooms are located in Terminal 1 (Transit A, B, and Z) and Terminal 2 (Levels 2 and 3, Concourses D and E). Smoking booths are also available in both terminals. E-cigarettes and vaping devices are subject to the same restrictions as traditional cigarettes. Outdoor smoking is permitted in designated areas on the landside.
Prayer Rooms
Multi-faith prayer/meditation rooms are available in both terminals. Located on the Departures levels. Directions from terminal information desks.
Showers
Public showers are available in select Lufthansa lounges for lounge members. The MY CLOUD Transit Hotel (airside, T1 non-Schengen transit zone) offers shower facilities for a fee to non-hotel guests. Several Lufthansa lounges (Senator, Business, Welcome) include free showers for qualifying passengers. The Luxx Lounge (Priority Pass, landside T1) offers paid shower access (~β¬10 extra).
Entertainment
Unique to FRA: Gaming World (free arcade games, T1 Concourses A and Z, open 24/7), Movie World (T1, entertainment/cinema area), an art installation tunnel in T1, and a behind-the-scenes airport exhibition. These make FRA one of the more entertainment-rich airports in Europe for long layovers.
---Airlines & Destinations
Hub Airlines
- Lufthansa (Star Alliance) β FRA is Lufthansa's primary global hub. Operates long-haul routes to all six continents plus dense European and German domestic networks. Operates from Terminal 1. Fleet includes A340, A350, A380, B747-8, A320 family.
- Lufthansa CityLine β Regional Lufthansa subsidiary operating short/medium-haul turboprop and regional jet flights. Terminal 1.
- Lufthansa City Airlines β Newer Lufthansa subsidiary, point-to-point European routes. Terminal 1.
- Discover Airlines β Lufthansa Group leisure/charter subsidiary (formerly Condor's sibling). Leisure routes to sun destinations. Terminal 1.
- Condor β Independent German leisure carrier using FRA as a primary base. Long-haul leisure routes. Terminal 1 (occasionally Terminal 2).
Star Alliance (Terminal 1)
United Airlines, Air Canada, Singapore Airlines, Turkish Airlines, LOT Polish Airlines, Ethiopian Airlines, Scandinavian Airlines (SAS), TAP Air Portugal, Aegean Airlines, Thai Airways, Copa Airlines, Avianca, South African Airways (SAA), Croatia Airlines, Shenzhen Airlines.
oneworld (Terminal 2)
American Airlines, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, Finnair, Japan Airlines, Qatar Airways, Royal Air Maroc, Royal Jordanian, SriLankan Airlines, Iberia.
SkyTeam (Terminal 2)
Air France, Delta Air Lines, KLM, Korean Air, Vietnam Airlines, China Airlines, Czech Airlines, Saudia, ITA Airways, TAROM, China Eastern Airlines, Aeroflot (currently suspended).
Unaffiliated / LCC (mostly Terminal 2)
Emirates, China Southern Airlines, Air Serbia, WizzAir, Eurowings (Lufthansa Group but operates independently), Condor.
Top Busiest Routes from FRA (2024)
| Route | Primary Carrier(s) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| FRA β JFK (New York) | Lufthansa, United Airlines | One of Europe's busiest transatlantic routes |
| FRA β ORD (Chicago) | Lufthansa, United Airlines | Key North American hub route |
| FRA β BKK (Bangkok) | Lufthansa, Thai Airways | Strong long-haul leisure demand |
| FRA β NRT (Tokyo Narita) | Lufthansa, Japan Airlines, ANA | Key Asia business route |
| FRA β IST (Istanbul) | Lufthansa, Turkish Airlines | High frequency, both airlines multiple daily |
| FRA β LHR (London Heathrow) | Lufthansa, British Airways | Business-heavy route |
| FRA β DXB (Dubai) | Lufthansa, Emirates | Emirates operates double-daily A380 |
| FRA β IAD (Washington Dulles) | Lufthansa, United Airlines | Government and business routes |
| FRA β BOG (BogotΓ‘) | Lufthansa, Avianca | Growing Latin American market |
| FRA β HKG (Hong Kong) | Lufthansa, Cathay Pacific | Premium Asia-Pacific business route |
Distances & Travel Times
Distances from Frankfurt Airport (FRA)
| Destination | Distance | By Car (off-peak) | By Public Transport |
|---|---|---|---|
| Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof (Central Station) | 12 km | 15β20 min | 11β15 min (S8/S9) |
| Frankfurt City Center (RΓΆmerberg) | 14 km | 20β30 min | 25β35 min (S-Bahn + walk) |
| Frankfurt Messe (Exhibition Center) | 11 km | 12β18 min | 20β25 min (S-Bahn) |
| Sachsenhausen / Museum Embankment | 13 km | 18β25 min | 30β40 min (Bus 61) |
| Frankfurt Nordend / Bockenheim | 15 km | 20β30 min | 35β45 min (S-Bahn + U-Bahn) |
| Wiesbaden City Center | 27 km | 25β35 min | 35β45 min (S-Bahn S8/S9 to Wiesbaden) |
| Darmstadt City Center | 28 km | 25β35 min | 45β55 min (S-Bahn + RE) |
| Mainz City Center | 30 km | 25β35 min | 40β50 min (S-Bahn to Mainz Hbf) |
| Heidelberg City Center | 80 km | 55β70 min | 50β65 min (ICE from Fernbahnhof) |
| Cologne City Center | 195 km | 2hβ2h 15min | ~50 min (ICE from Fernbahnhof) |
| Munich City Center | 390 km | 3h 30minβ4h | ~3h (ICE from Fernbahnhof) |
| Frankfurt Ostbahnhof (East Station) | 17 km | 20β30 min | 30 min (S8/S9) |
Passenger Statistics
Frankfurt Airport β Annual Passenger Traffic
| Year | Total Passengers | YoY Change | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 70.5 million | +3.2% | Pre-pandemic peak / all-time record |
| 2020 | 18.8 million | -73.3% | COVID-19 impact; borders closed |
| 2021 | 24.4 million | +29.8% | Partial recovery; vaccination rollout |
| 2022 | 48.9 million | +100.4% | Strong rebound; summer peak |
| 2023 | 59.3 million | +21.3% | Continued recovery; 84% of 2019 |
| 2024 | 61.6 million | +3.7% | Continued growth; 87.3% of 2019 |
Key 2024 Operational Statistics
- Aircraft movements: 440,853 takeoffs and landings (+2.4% year-on-year)
- Cargo volume: 2.1 million metric tonnes (+6.2% YoY) β Europe's #1 cargo airport
- Total maximum takeoff weights (MTOWs): ~27.8 million metric tonnes (+2.8%)
- Destinations served: 311 destinations in 98 countries by 99 airlines
- International traffic share: 91.4% international; 8.6% domestic
- Busiest day 2024: 25 July β 213,418 passengers
- Busiest month 2024: July
- December 2024: 4.5 million passengers (down 1.1% YoY β seasonal variation)
- European ranking: 6th (after Istanbul, Heathrow, Paris CDG, Amsterdam, Madrid)
- Global ranking: 22nd by total passengers (2024)
- Hub connectivity ranking: #1 globally (most direct connecting flight options for transfer passengers)
- Gap to pre-pandemic: Still 12.7% below 2019 record of 70.5 million passengers
Frankfurt Airport employs approximately 80,000 people β making it Germany's single largest employment site. Fraport AG itself employs workers from 114 countries. The airport's 35,000 sq meters of retail and 300 service outlets contribute significantly to the airport's non-aeronautical revenue. Long-term, Terminal 3 (under construction, Phase 1 target: 2026) will add 15 million passengers/year capacity, with a final total capacity of approximately 80 million passengers annually.
---Frequently Asked Questions
Contact Information
General Airport Information (Fraport)
Phone: +49 1806 372-4636
Daily, standard business hours
Airport Medical Center
Phone: +49 69 690-30500
24/7, Terminal 1 Arrivals Level
Official Frankfurt Airport Website
Social Media
Twitter: @Airport_FRA
Facebook: Frankfurt Airport
Instagram: @frankfurt_airport
Lost & Found (Fundsachen)
Phone: +49 69 690-66223
Location: Terminal 1, Arrivals Level (Level 1), accessible from baggage claim area. Also reachable via online form at frankfurt-airport.com
Open: 24/7 for items left on airport premises
Flight Arrivals & Departures
Passenger Feedback & Comments
Email: [email protected]
Pro Tips for Frankfurt am Main
- If you are a Star Alliance Gold or Senator member with a Lufthansa flight from Concourse Z (non-Schengen, Terminal 1), use the Lufthansa Senator Lounge at Gate Z50 β it is consistently rated the best Senator lounge at FRA with better food and a calmer atmosphere than the busier A and B lounges. It is worth the walk.
- Terminal 2 passengers arriving at FRA and connecting to a Terminal 1 gate: the internal airside connector between T2 Concourse D and T1 Concourse C is faster than taking the SkyLine when departing from Concourse C β but it is only accessible to connecting passengers staying in the transit zone (you cannot use it to go landside). Follow 'Connections Terminal 1' signs from T2.
- The supermarket on Level 0 of Terminal 1 Concourse C (Airport City Mall) is a hidden gem β open 7 days a week (including Sundays, unusual for Germany), it stocks German snacks, drinks, and last-minute gifts at near-retail prices, far below the duty-free markup. Visit it before clearing security if you need supplies for a long flight.
- Free arcade games are available 24/7 in Gaming World (T1 Concourse A and Z) β genuinely popular with families and passengers on long layovers. For art enthusiasts, Terminal 1 has a dedicated art installation tunnel between concourses; look for it on the transition level between A and B.
- If your flight departs from Terminal 1 Concourse A-Plus (common for Lufthansa long-haul flights), add 15β20 extra minutes compared to regular Terminal 1 gates β Concourse A-Plus is an 800-metre extension with moving walkways but no internal people mover, and its location 300 metres from the main terminal means security can occasionally back up. Check your gate assignment the night before using the FRA app or Lufthansa app.
- Pre-book your parking online at frankfurt-airport.com for the best rates and guaranteed availability β holiday parking (from β¬68 for 7 days) is dramatically cheaper than showing up without a booking to Terminal Parking (β¬42/day). The P31 short-term lot fills up quickly on Monday mornings and Friday afternoons.
- Lufthansa offers a unique 'AIRail' service β you can check your luggage at Frankfurt Airport's Fernbahnhof (long-distance train station beneath T1) for flights from Cologne or Stuttgart, and your bags travel all the way to your final destination. This is especially useful if you live near those cities and want to avoid a connecting flight.
- Frankfurt trade fairs (Messe Frankfurt) can make the airport and city extremely crowded. Major fairs include Automechanika (September), Book Fair (October), and IAA (alternates years). During these weeks, expect higher hotel prices, longer taxi waits, and busier security queues β book accommodation and parking well in advance.
- Confusing the two train stations: the Regionalbahnhof (for S-Bahn S8/S9 to Frankfurt city) and the Fernbahnhof (for ICE/IC long-distance trains to other cities) are both beneath Terminal 1 but are separate stations at different levels β both are reached via Terminal 1 Concourse B, but you follow different signs ('Regionalbahnhof' for S-Bahn; 'Fernbahnhof' for ICE). Taking the wrong platform means a wasted trip.
- Forgetting to validate / buy a train ticket before boarding the S-Bahn β unlike London Underground or Dubai Metro, the platform barriers at FRA Regionalbahnhof are not always gated. Ticket inspectors (Kontrolleure) regularly check tickets and the fine for travelling without a valid ticket is β¬60 on the spot, payable immediately. Machines on the platform accept cash and cards.
- Assuming Terminal 2 has direct rail access β it does not. If you land at Terminal 2 and need the S-Bahn, walk to the SkyLine station inside Terminal 2 arrivals and ride it to Terminal 1 (any SkyLine stop β about 5β7 min). From Terminal 1, follow signs to Regionalbahnhof. Bypassing this step and taking a taxi instead can cost β¬25ββ¬40 unnecessarily.