Passenger Traffic at Frankfurt Airport: Slight Decline at the Start of 2025

Frankfurt Airport experienced a slight decline in passenger traffic in January 2025. While the Lufthansa Group reduced its flight offerings, other airlines managed to increase their passenger numbers. Despite this setback in passenger statistics, the number of flight movements remained nearly stable.

3.9 Million Travelers in January – A 3.1% Decrease

In the first month of the year, approximately 3.9 million passengers traveled through Germany’s largest airport. This represents a 3.1% decrease compared to the same period last year. A significant factor contributing to this decline was the Lufthansa Group’s decision to adjust its flight schedule and reduce capacity. However, other airlines were able to increase their passenger numbers, partially offsetting the negative trend.

Despite the decline in passenger numbers, the total number of flight movements remained largely stable. In January 2025, Frankfurt Airport recorded 30,938 takeoffs and landings, only 0.4% fewer than in the previous year. Maximum takeoff weights also remained steady at around 2.0 million tons, with only a minimal decrease of 1.0%.

Cargo Volume Declining – 3.9% Drop

In addition to the slight downturn in passenger traffic, Frankfurt Airport’s cargo sector also saw a decline. Cargo volume for January totaled 148,321 tons, reflecting a 3.9% decrease compared to the previous year. The weaker performance in the cargo sector may be attributed to various economic factors, including shifting global supply chains and an overall decline in trade activity.

Lufthansa Faces Challenges in Fleet Planning

One major factor impacting passenger traffic at Frankfurt Airport is Lufthansa’s current fleet challenges. According to aero.de, the airline is facing a shortage of Boeing 787-9 and 777-9 aircraft, creating strain on its intercontinental flight schedule. As a result, Lufthansa is currently forced to operate many of its long-haul routes from Frankfurt with older aircraft, including the Boeing 747-8, 747-400, and Airbus A340-600.

Lufthansa Airlines CEO Jens Ritter commented: “Our older fleet requires extensive maintenance. In Frankfurt, we must keep every fifth long-haul aircraft in reserve, which further limits our available capacity.” This situation presents operational challenges for the airline and could impact its long-term competitiveness.

Mixed Performance at Fraport’s International Airports

While Frankfurt Airport recorded a slight decline in passenger numbers, the international portfolio of airport operator Fraport showed mixed results. Some airports managed by Fraport experienced growth, while others faced declines:

• Ljubljana, Slovenia: 72,603 passengers (-3.4%)
• Fortaleza & Porto Alegre, Brazil: 1.1 million passengers (-3.8%)
• Lima, Peru: 2.2 million passengers (+9.2%)
• 14 Greek regional airports: 663,752 passengers (+3.6%)
• Burgas & Varna, Bulgaria: 79,433 travelers (-6.8%)
• Antalya, Turkey: 1.0 million passengers (+4.0%)

Despite some declines, the total passenger volume at Fraport’s international airports increased slightly to 9.0 million travelers in January, marking a 0.7% gain.

A Year of Challenges and Opportunities

The beginning of 2025 brought mixed results for Frankfurt Airport. While the Lufthansa Group’s reduced capacity had a noticeable impact on passenger numbers, other airlines and some international Fraport locations recorded growth. The long-term development will depend on how quickly Lufthansa resolves its fleet challenges and how global travel trends evolve.
The coming months will determine whether this slight decline is just a temporary dip or if Frankfurt will need to take targeted action to maintain its position as Germany’s leading aviation hub.

Parking at Frankfurt Airport

For travelers driving to Frankfurt Airport, there are numerous parking options available. Whether parking directly at the terminal, using a shuttle transfer, or opting for budget-friendly alternatives nearby—there is a solution for every need.

Affordable Parking at Frankfurt Airport with Parkwell.com – Compare and Book Online

With Parkwell.com, travelers can easily compare different providers for parking at Frankfurt Airport and book their parking space online. This ensures they always find the best deal and can secure their spot in advance.

Shuttle Parking at Frankfurt Airport

A cost-effective alternative to expensive terminal parking is shuttle parking. In this option, vehicles are parked in an external lot near the airport, and a shuttle service conveniently transports passengers to the terminal.

How Shuttle Parking Works at Frankfurt Airport

• Reserve your parking space online through Parkwell.com.
• Arrive at the booked parking location and safely park your vehicle.
• A shuttle takes you directly to the terminal.
• Upon return, the shuttle will be waiting at the airport to bring you back to your car.

Valet Parking Frankfurt – Secure and Verified Providers on Parkwell.com

For maximum convenience, valet parking is the ideal choice. Travelers simply drop off their vehicle directly at the terminal, where a professional parking service takes care of it. The car is then safely parked in a monitored lot. Using Parkwell.com, travelers can compare and book reputable and verified valet parking providers.

Park & Walk Frankfurt – Book Your Parking Space and Take Public Transport to Frankfurt Airport

A particularly budget-friendly option is Park & Walk. Travelers park their vehicles at an affordable location slightly outside the airport and use public transportation to reach the terminal. Thanks to excellent connections via S-Bahn, buses, and shuttles, this is a practical alternative for budget-conscious travelers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Parking at Frankfurt Airport

1. How can I find the cheapest parking space at Frankfurt Airport?

Use Parkwell.com to compare prices and providers and book the best parking option.

2. Are there free parking options at Frankfurt Airport?

There are no free long-term parking options, but short-term parking is free for a few minutes.

3. How does shuttle parking work at Frankfurt Airport?

You park at an external lot and take a shuttle directly to the terminal.

4. What is valet parking, and how does it work?

You drop off your vehicle at the terminal, and a service provider parks it securely for you.

5. Are the parking lots at Frankfurt Airport safe?

Yes, many providers offer monitored parking areas with security services.

6. Can I book my parking spot at Frankfurt Airport in advance?

Yes, through Parkwell.com, you can reserve your parking space online.

7. Which payment methods are accepted?

Most parking providers accept credit cards, PayPal, and sometimes cash payments.

8. Are there special parking spaces for electric vehicles at Frankfurt Airport?

Yes, selected parking areas offer charging stations for electric cars.

9. How long can I park my car at Frankfurt Airport?

Depending on the rate, you can park for a few hours up to several weeks.

10. Can I cancel or modify my parking reservation?

Many providers offer flexible cancellation and rebooking options—check the terms in advance.

With Parkwell.com, you can find the perfect parking solution for your needs—quickly, easily, and securely!

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>