Frankfurt Airport: Passenger Numbers Remain Below Pre-COVID Levels in 2024

Frankfurt Airport, Germany's most significant hub, could not match the record-breaking figures seen before the COVID-19 pandemic, even in 2024. Despite a slight increase in passenger numbers, the airport remains below its peak year, 2019. Popular travel destinations and the progress of Terminal 3’s construction, however, paint a nuanced picture of the current situation.

Slight Increase in Passenger Numbers but Still Below Record Levels

In 2024, a total of 61.6 million passengers used Frankfurt Airport, marking a 3.7% increase compared to 2023, when 59.4 million travelers were recorded. This growth aligns with the expectations of Fraport CEO Stefan Schulte. However, the figures are still 12.7% lower than the record year of 2019, which saw 70.6 million passengers.
The COVID-19 pandemic, which led to severe travel restrictions beginning in 2020, has left a lasting impact on the aviation industry. While passenger traffic has fully recovered at some international airports, Germany has yet to return to pre-pandemic levels. Conversely, Fraport-operated airports abroad have in some cases already achieved record numbers.

December Decline and Challenges from High Operating Costs

In December 2024, Frankfurt Airport experienced a slight decline in passenger numbers, dropping by 1.1% to 4.5 million. Cargo volume also fell by 1.2%. According to CEO Stefan Schulte, the high state-regulated operational costs negatively affect the airport's competitiveness:

"Airlines are investing in locations where they face lower fees. This impact is also being felt here in Frankfurt."

Popular Destinations: Focus on Medium- and Long-Haul Routes

Despite challenges, a clear trend has emerged regarding preferred travel destinations. On medium-haul routes, Southern European countries like Greece, Spain, Portugal, and Italy were particularly popular. On long-haul routes, North America remained the favorite, with growing interest in East Asia and South America, indicating a recovery in intercontinental tourism.

Cargo Volumes and Terminal Construction Offer Positive Outlooks

Cargo volumes at Frankfurt Airport increased by 6.2% in 2024 to 2.1 million tons, underscoring the airport’s importance as a central logistics hub in Europe.

Meanwhile, the construction of Terminal 3 is progressing as planned, with an opening scheduled for spring 2026. According to Fraport CEO Schulte, the project remains on schedule and within the estimated cost framework of approximately €4 billion, with a deviation of ±€100 million. The new terminal will initially accommodate 19 million passengers annually, expandable to 25 million if needed. Once completed, Terminal 3 will replace Terminal 2, which requires extensive renovations after more than 30 years of operation.

A Look Ahead

Developments at Frankfurt Airport indicate that the recovery from the pandemic is still a work in progress. However, positive trends—such as increasing demand for travel to Southern Europe and across the Atlantic, along with progress on Terminal 3’s construction—suggest a stable future. Fraport faces the challenge of creating more competitive conditions for airlines to ensure Frankfurt remains an attractive hub in the long term.

Parking at Frankfurt Airport: Options and Services

Parking at Frankfurt Airport offers travelers a range of solutions that balance comfort and cost. For those preferring flexible travel arrangements, parking near the airport combined with public transportation can be a convenient choice. Numerous parking lots and garages in the vicinity offer affordable rates and easy access to train or bus services that lead directly to the terminal. This option is especially appealing to long-term parkers looking to save on costs.

Shuttle Parking at Frankfurt Airport

Another popular solution is shuttle parking. Travelers park their vehicles in a secure, off-site lot and are transported to the terminal via shuttle bus. This service is not only cost-effective but also time-efficient, with frequent shuttle intervals minimizing waiting times. Providers like Parkwell stand out by offering additional amenities such as well-lit parking areas, video surveillance, and customer-friendly support.

Frankfurt Airport Parking with Valet Service

For maximum convenience, valet parking is an excellent choice. With this service, travelers hand over their vehicles directly at the terminal to trained staff, who then park the car securely. This option saves time and ensures a stress-free start to your journey, especially for those on tight schedules or traveling with heavy luggage. Providers like Parkwell combine valet and shuttle services to meet the diverse needs of travelers, offering seamless transitions between vehicle drop-off and terminal access.

Frankfurt Airport Parking – Find Your Spot at Parkwell.com

Regardless of your choice, parking at Frankfurt Airport provides a variety of options to suit all preferences. From budget-friendly to luxurious, every service is designed to make the start of your journey as smooth as possible. Compare providers and book your parking space online at Parkwell.com for a hassle-free experience.

FAQs About Parking at Frankfurt Airport

1. What parking options are available at Frankfurt Airport?

Frankfurt Airport offers terminal parking, shuttle parking at external lots, and valet services, catering to various budgets and comfort levels.

2. What is shuttle parking, and how does it work?

Shuttle parking involves parking your vehicle at an off-site lot and using a shuttle bus to reach the terminal. The shuttle also brings you back upon your return.

3. How does valet parking at Frankfurt Airport work?

With valet parking, you hand over your vehicle at the terminal to trained staff, who park it securely. The car is returned to you at the terminal when you return.

4. Is parking near Frankfurt Airport cheaper?

Yes, parking outside the airport premises is often more affordable and easily accessible via public transportation or shuttle services.

5. Are there monitored parking lots at Frankfurt Airport?

Many providers, especially those offering shuttle and valet parking, feature monitored lots with video surveillance and additional security.

6. How do I book a parking spot at Frankfurt Airport?

You can book online through platforms like Parkwell.com, which allow you to compare prices, features, and customer reviews.

7. Is parking at Frankfurt Airport suitable for long-term trips?

Yes, long-term parking options, including discounted rates for extended stays, are available. Shuttle parking is particularly economical for long trips.

8. When should I arrive for shuttle parking before my flight?

Arrive 2-3 hours before your flight to ensure enough time for the shuttle transfer and check-in at the airport.

9. Can I add extra services to valet parking?

Yes, many valet providers offer additional services such as car washing, interior cleaning, or minor repairs while you’re away.

10. How can I find the best parking option at Frankfurt Airport?

Use comparison platforms like Parkwell.com to evaluate prices, security features, customer reviews, and additional services such as shuttle or valet options.

Article Author

Lena Müller

Operations

<p><span style="white-space:pre-wrap;">With a Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management and over five years of hands-on experience, Lena's contributions have been nothing short of transformative.</span></p>