Frankfurt Airport expects around 3.5 million passengers between 2 and 18 October, with operator Fraport warning that busy terminals and longer border queues could affect holiday departures.
Approximately 650,000 passengers are forecast to travel through the airport during the first weekend alone, from 2 to 4 October, as school holidays begin in Hesse and other German states.
Fraport is urging travellers to prepare ahead, particularly those who need to pass through passport control.
Allow Extra Time for Border Checks
According to Fraport, additional data collection under the European Union’s Entry/Exit System is lengthening processing times at border checkpoints, especially for non-EU citizens.
The operator recommends arriving at least three hours before departure for passengers affected by these procedures.
It also advises EU, EEA and Swiss travellers, along with German residence permit holders, to allow three hours when departing for destinations outside the Schengen Area, as wider congestion may affect them too. Eligible passengers can use the automated EasyPASS gates.
For travellers who do not need to pass through border control, Fraport recommends arriving:
- Two and a half hours before departure when checking luggage.
- Around two hours before departure when travelling with hand luggage only.
Reserve a Free Security Slot
Passengers can book a free security appointment through FRA SmartWay, which provides access to a dedicated lane during a selected time slot.
Fraport says CT scanners are available at Terminal 3 and at checkpoints used by most passengers starting their journey in Terminal 1. These allow electronics and liquids to remain inside hand luggage during screening.
Liquid allowances depend on the checkpoint and applicable rules, so passengers should check the airport’s current guidance before packing. A security reservation does not replace the need to allow time for check-in, bag drop and passport control.
Check In Online and Consider Early Bag Drop
Many airlines open online check-in 24 hours before departure. Self-service Fast Bag Drop machines are available for passengers checking luggage, while some carriers also offer bag drop up to 23 hours before the flight.
Fraport advises travellers to confirm which services their airline provides before heading to the airport.
Passengers flying with Lufthansa, Condor, Discover Airlines and SWISS can also use Airportr’s home luggage collection and check-in service, subject to availability.
Book Parking Ahead of the Holiday Rush
Drivers are encouraged to reserve airport parking in advance, both to secure a space and potentially access lower rates.
Terminal car parks are also available for people collecting or dropping off passengers. Rail services offer an alternative for reaching the airport during the busy period.
Before travelling, passengers should confirm their flight status, terminal, airline requirements and the entry rules for their destination.
