Fraport has officially inaugurated the new Terminal 3 at Frankfurt Airport, completing one of Europe’s largest privately funded infrastructure projects.
The opening ceremony on April 22 brought together more than 400 guests, including German Transport Minister Patrick Schnieder, Hesse state premier Boris Rhein and Frankfurt mayor Mike Josef. Fraport CEO Stefan Schulte described the new terminal as a cornerstone for the airport’s long-term growth.
Operations begin April 23
Terminal 3 will enter service on April 23, with 57 airlines relocating to the new facility in phases through early June. Leisure carrier Condor is also set to move operations to the terminal in 2027.
Designed to improve efficiency and passenger experience, the terminal features automated baggage handling, CT security scanners, and a commercial offering of 64 shops and restaurants. Fraport says the layout prioritises shorter walking distances and streamlined passenger flows.
Capacity for future growth
The €4 billion project, launched in 2015, has been completed on time and on budget despite major challenges including the pandemic and supply chain disruptions. At full initial operation, Terminal 3 will handle up to 19 million passengers annually, with potential expansion to 25 million in a later phase.
The development significantly increases Frankfurt’s capacity as a global aviation hub, reinforcing its role in international connectivity at a time of rising passenger demand.
