"Munich Airport"

Great progress is being made on the new pier at Munich Airport’s Terminal 1. After completing the exterior facade in 2023, construction is now moving swiftly on the interior.

The project is on track for completion by the end of 2025, with comprehensive testing following to ensure a smooth opening.

This exciting expansion will centralize Terminal 1’s non-Schengen traffic, offering a dedicated space for airlines like American Airlines, British Airways, Delta Airlines, Emirates, Turkish Airlines, and Qatar Airways.

Jost Lammers, Chief Executive Officer of Munich Airport, pointed out the project’s benefits. “The expansion guarantees a consistently high quality experience across all passenger handling areas.”

“The new pier boasts modern lounges, significantly enhancing Terminal 1’s overall appeal. This creates long-term growth prospects for our partner airlines and strengthens Munich’s position as a premier aviation hub.”

Designed for Efficiency and Passenger Comfort

The new pier stretches approximately 360 meters into the western apron and offers a spacious 95,000 square meters.

The expansion will incorporate a section of the existing Terminal 1 Module B Arrivals area to create the central entrance and exit point.

This six-story structure prioritizes passenger needs. Three floors cater directly to travelers:

• Level 03: Featuring bus gates, immigration controls, and baggage reclaim for a seamless arrival experience.
• Level 04: Housing a vibrant marketplace and convenient departure gates.
• Level 05: Dedicated to arrivals with passport control and state-of-the-art security checkpoints equipped with CT technology, already familiar to passengers using Terminal 1 Module D and Terminal 2.

The pier can accommodate up to twelve smaller aircraft or six wide-body aircraft simultaneously, ensuring efficient operations. Access is streamlined through a centralized security area with ten checkpoints.

The new pier prioritizes environmental responsibility. Energy-efficient technologies are incorporated throughout, including a connection to the airport’s central eco-friendly energy generation system.

Additionally, the air treatment systems boast highly efficient heat recovery features, minimizing the environmental footprint.

A Welcoming Space with Bavarian Flair

Nathalie Leroy, Chief Financial Officer and Director of Infrastructure at Munich Airport, emphasizes the focus on passenger comfort.

“The increased space combined with cutting-edge technology translates to significant improvements in passenger experience, service efficiency, and overall comfort.”

“This expansion will transform the 30-year-old Terminal 1 into a state-of-the-art facility, perfectly equipped to handle the evolving demands of non-Schengen travel.”

The emphasis on passenger well-being extends to the commercial areas. Comfortable relaxation zones, dedicated children’s play areas, and engaging exhibition spaces contribute to a welcoming atmosphere.

The unifying theme throughout the pier is “Bavarian Soul,” aiming to showcase the airport as a gateway to Bavaria.

A Central Marketplace for Non-Schengen Travel

The centerpiece of the pier will be a bustling marketplace serving all non-Schengen traffic.

This expansive area, encompassing 5,200 square meters, will feature a large walk-through duty-free zone. This zone will sit alongside a diverse selection of catering and retail options.

“With the ‘Bavarian Soul’ concept, we’re crafting a new passenger experience in the upcoming pier,” says Jan-Henrik Andersson, Chief Commercial Officer and Chief Security Officer at Munich Airport.

“We’re creating a pleasant atmosphere with premium brands, a warm ambiance, and timeless interior design – everything that embodies the Munich Airport experience.”

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Great progress is being made on the new pier at Munich Airport’s Terminal 1. After completing the exterior facade in 2023, construction is now moving swiftly on the interior.

The project is on track for completion by the end of 2025, with comprehensive testing following to ensure a smooth opening.

This exciting expansion will centralize Terminal 1’s non-Schengen traffic, offering a dedicated space for airlines like American Airlines, British Airways, Delta Airlines, Emirates, Turkish Airlines, and Qatar Airways.

Jost Lammers, Chief Executive Officer of Munich Airport, pointed out the project’s benefits. “The expansion guarantees a consistently high quality experience across all passenger handling areas.”

“The new pier boasts modern lounges, significantly enhancing Terminal 1’s overall appeal. This creates long-term growth prospects for our partner airlines and strengthens Munich’s position as a premier aviation hub.”

Designed for Efficiency and Passenger Comfort

The new pier stretches approximately 360 meters into the western apron and offers a spacious 95,000 square meters.

The expansion will incorporate a section of the existing Terminal 1 Module B Arrivals area to create the central entrance and exit point.

This six-story structure prioritizes passenger needs. Three floors cater directly to travelers:

• Level 03: Featuring bus gates, immigration controls, and baggage reclaim for a seamless arrival experience.
• Level 04: Housing a vibrant marketplace and convenient departure gates.
• Level 05: Dedicated to arrivals with passport control and state-of-the-art security checkpoints equipped with CT technology, already familiar to passengers using Terminal 1 Module D and Terminal 2.

The pier can accommodate up to twelve smaller aircraft or six wide-body aircraft simultaneously, ensuring efficient operations. Access is streamlined through a centralized security area with ten checkpoints.

The new pier prioritizes environmental responsibility. Energy-efficient technologies are incorporated throughout, including a connection to the airport’s central eco-friendly energy generation system.

Additionally, the air treatment systems boast highly efficient heat recovery features, minimizing the environmental footprint.

A Welcoming Space with Bavarian Flair

Nathalie Leroy, Chief Financial Officer and Director of Infrastructure at Munich Airport, emphasizes the focus on passenger comfort.

“The increased space combined with cutting-edge technology translates to significant improvements in passenger experience, service efficiency, and overall comfort.”

“This expansion will transform the 30-year-old Terminal 1 into a state-of-the-art facility, perfectly equipped to handle the evolving demands of non-Schengen travel.”

The emphasis on passenger well-being extends to the commercial areas. Comfortable relaxation zones, dedicated children’s play areas, and engaging exhibition spaces contribute to a welcoming atmosphere.

The unifying theme throughout the pier is “Bavarian Soul,” aiming to showcase the airport as a gateway to Bavaria.

A Central Marketplace for Non-Schengen Travel

The centerpiece of the pier will be a bustling marketplace serving all non-Schengen traffic.

This expansive area, encompassing 5,200 square meters, will feature a large walk-through duty-free zone. This zone will sit alongside a diverse selection of catering and retail options.

“With the ‘Bavarian Soul’ concept, we’re crafting a new passenger experience in the upcoming pier,” says Jan-Henrik Andersson, Chief Commercial Officer and Chief Security Officer at Munich Airport.

“We’re creating a pleasant atmosphere with premium brands, a warm ambiance, and timeless interior design – everything that embodies the Munich Airport experience.”

---

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Munich Airport, also known as Franz Josef Strauss Airport (Flughafen Franz Josef Strauss), is a major transportation hub in Germany.

It boasts the title of the second busiest airport in the country, connecting Bavaria’s capital to destinations worldwide.

But the journey to becoming this modern marvel involved a significant relocation and meticulous planning.

Let’s delve into the history of Munich Airport, exploring its origins, the dramatic move, and its rise to prominence.

The Early Days: Munich-Riem Airport (1936-1992)

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Munich’s aviation story began in the 1930s.

Construction commenced on Munich-Riem Airport in 1936, and by 1939, it was operational, replacing the airfield at Oberwiesenfeld.

During World War II, the airport played a role in the German war effort, serving as a base for Jagdverband 44, a legendary fighter unit.

Post-war, Munich-Riem witnessed a resurgence in civilian air traffic.

The arrival of jet aircraft in the late 1950s further spurred passenger numbers.

However, the airport’s location, nestled amidst a growing city, presented challenges.

Expansion possibilities were limited due to legal and political constraints, and noise pollution became a growing concern for nearby residents.

Planning a New Horizon: The Search for a New Location (1960s-1980s)

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By the early 1960s, it became evident that Munich-Riem had reached its capacity.

The Öchsle Commission, formed in 1963, embarked on a crucial mission: finding a suitable location for a new airport.

The search spanned several years, with various factors like environmental impact, accessibility, and future expansion potential considered.

Finally, in 1969, the Bavarian government made a decisive choice.

Erdinger Moos, an extensive area northeast of Munich, was selected for the new airport.

Construction began in 1980, marking the beginning of a new chapter in Munich’s aviation history.

The construction process wasn’t without its complexities.

A small village called Franzheim stood in the path of progress.

The approximately 400 residents were resettled, and the village itself was dismantled to make way for the new airport.

The Great Move: A Logistical Feat (1992)

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The year 1992 witnessed a remarkable feat in European aviation history.

The complete relocation of Munich Airport from Riem to Erdinger Moos took place over a single weekend!

This logistical marvel involved meticulous planning for two years.

Around 5,000 people and a staggering 700 trucks were mobilized to ensure a smooth transition.

On May 16th, 1992, Munich-Riem Airport ceased operations shortly before midnight.

Within 16 hours, all infrastructure and equipment were meticulously transferred to the new location.

By the morning of May 17th, the new Franz Josef Strauss Airport, named after the influential Bavarian politician, was operational, welcoming its first passengers.

The success of this large-scale relocation served as a benchmark for future airport relocations worldwide.

A New Era Dawns: Growth and Development (1992-Present)

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The new airport offered a significant leap forward in capacity and passenger experience.

With two runways and a modern terminal complex, Franz Josef Strauss Airport quickly became a major transportation hub.

The initial passenger numbers of 12 million in 1992 rapidly climbed, exceeding capacity within a few years.

To accommodate the growing demand, Terminal 2 was inaugurated in 2003, followed by further expansions.

Today, the airport boasts a state-of-the-art infrastructure, featuring two terminals, a satellite building, and extensive cargo facilities.

It caters to over 40 million passengers annually, connecting them to over 240 destinations worldwide.

Munich Airport has also established itself as a leader in innovation and sustainability.

It actively pursues initiatives to reduce its environmental impact, with a focus on noise reduction and energy efficiency.

The airport has consistently received recognition for its passenger services and facilities, achieving a 5-Star Airport ranking by Skytrax in 2015, becoming the first airport outside Asia to receive this prestigious distinction.

In conclusion, Munich Airport’s journey reflects a commitment to progress and adaptation.

From the limitations of Riem to the modern marvel of Erdinger Moos, the airport has constantly evolved to meet the demands of a growing city and a globalized world.

As it continues to expand and innovate, Munich Airport remains a vital gateway to Bavaria and a testament to German engineering prowess.

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Data released by Munich airport shows that air traffic continued to grow significantly for the German airport in 2023.

Overall, Munich recorded 5 million more passenger movements than in 2022, with the total number of aircraft movements increasing by 6%.

On the cargo side, air freight volume reached around 277,000 tons; a rise of approximately 7% year on year.

Overall Growth 2023

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Munich Airport experienced a substantial upswing, with a staggering 5 million more passengers recorded in 2023 compared to the preceding year, marking a significant achievement.

The total number of aircraft movements soared by 6%, demonstrating a robust expansion of the airport’s operations.

Air Freight Volume

On the cargo front, Munich Airport handled approximately 277,000 tons of air freight, a substantial 7% increase year on year. This is notable, given the trajectory which the global air cargo sector took across the year, which saw softer demand amid geo-political and economic concerns.

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This healthy year-on-year growth emphasizes the airport’s role as a crucial hub for the efficient movement of cargo and goods.

Passenger Numbers

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The positive trajectory in Munich’s aviation operations is vividly portrayed in the 2023 traffic figures. Passenger numbers climbed by an impressive five million year-on-year, reaching a total of 37 million.

Notably, Munich Airport achieved a remarkable 80% of the pre-crisis record level from 2019, underscoring its resilience.

Aircraft Movements and Load Factor

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Aircraft movements also experienced a notable surge, escalating by six percent compared to 2022, totaling over 300,000 take-offs and landings.

The seat load factor achieved a record-breaking 81.3%, surpassing 80% for the first time since the airport’s inception, highlighting the efficiency and popularity of Munich Airport among travelers.

Regional Focus

In 2023, the focus of passenger development centered on traffic originating from or destined for Munich, witnessing a remarkable 22% surge from the previous year.

Transfer passengers, crucial for hub traffic, recorded a double-digit growth of 11%, showcasing Munich Airport’s pivotal role as a connecting point.

Global Connectivity

With an extensive network of 219 destinations spanning 64 countries, Bavaria’s aviation hub solidified its global connectivity in 2023.

The airport was served by 99 airlines, including nine exclusively dedicated to air freight, reaffirming its status as a pivotal player in international air travel.

CEO’s Perspective: Jost Lammers

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Jost Lammers, the CEO of Flughafen München GmbH, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “The strong growth in passenger numbers in 2023 shows how well the aviation industry is recovering in Munich.”

“This positive development is a sign of the high demand for air travel among the public and the business community alike.”

The surge in passenger traffic had a cascading effect on air freight, with freight volumes soaring by seven percent in 2023, totaling around 280,000 metric tons.

This dual success underscores Munich Airport’s comprehensive approach to both passenger and cargo services.

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Munich Airport (MUC), one of Europe’s busiest airports, and Germany’s second largest hub, has been closed due to bad weather which has included freezing rain and snowfall.

In a notice issued to social media, Munich Airport (MUC) advised that flight operations would be suspended on Tuesday five December from 6 AM until 12 PM local time.

Munich Airport Closure Tuesday 5 December

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The airport cited the reason for the suspension of takeoffs and landings as a fall of freezing rain which occurred through the night from Monday into Tuesday, making safe flight operations impossible through the morning.

It was hoped that resumption of flights would occur after midday today following the de-icing of runways.

Notwithstanding this advice the airport has advised of the possibility of the majority of flights being cancelled through the rest of the day due to safety precautions.

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As a result, the advice that has been issued to passengers is to stay at home unless confirmation has been received that their flight is operating

Earlier Closures

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The airport was initially forced to shut down on Saturday, December 2nd, after around 50 cm of snow accumulated on the airfield in less than 48 hours.

Snow ploughs had struggled to keep up with the snow, and the airport’s operations were quickly brought to a halt.

The airport subsequently reopened on Sunday, but it was working at a reduced capacity. The airport’s Christmas market also remains closed today and tomorrow.

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The new winter flight schedule at Munich Airport will begin at the same time as the clock change and last from Sunday, October 29, 2023 to Saturday, March 30, 2024.

During this period, passengers will be able to choose between 43 long-haul and 116 medium-haul destinations, as well as 13 cities in Germany.

Munich Airport Winter Schedule Highlights

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As winter approaches, Munich Airport is gearing up to welcome travelers to its brand-new winter flight schedule, commencing on Sunday, October 29, 2023.

Deutsche Lufthansa, one of Munich Airport’s major carriers, is at the forefront of expanding its winter offerings. This winter season, they’re introducing exciting new destinations that will undoubtedly pique travellers’ interest.

Flying to Bangalore, India

For the very first time, Munich Airport will offer flights to the vibrant city of Bangalore, India. These long-haul flights will be available three times a week, using the Airbus A350, one of the world’s most state-of-the-art aircraft. Whether you’re heading to India for business or leisure, Lufthansa has you covered.

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Exploring Europe

Lufthansa is also spreading its wings across Europe, adding several new destinations to its winter schedule:

Oulu, Finland

Twice a week, travelers can now explore the enchanting city of Oulu, Finland. Experience the Northern Lights and the unique Finnish culture in this stunning destination.

Arrecife, Lanzarote

Arrecife, located on the picturesque island of Lanzarote, is now accessible once a week. Its golden beaches and volcanic landscapes await your discovery.

Route Resumptions

After a hiatus, Lufthansa is bringing back two exciting destinations:

Glasgow: Explore the vibrant Scottish culture and breathtaking landscapes, with flights once a week.

Marrakesh: Experience the magic of Morocco, with flights twice a week, rekindling your love for this enchanting city.

Continued Long-Haul Services

Lufthansa’s long-haul excellence continues into the winter season with the continuation of their routes to Beijing and Shanghai.

But that’s not all! The routes to Bangkok and Los Angeles will now be served with the popular Airbus A380, the world’s largest passenger aircraft, offering passengers unparalleled comfort and luxury.

Other Airlines at Munich

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Munich Airport is not only about Lufthansa; other airlines are also expanding their services to provide you with more travel options.

SalamAir

SalamAir from Oman has been connecting travelers to Muscat and Salalah twice a week since September 30, offering a gateway to the mesmerizing landscapes and culture of Oman.

Uzbekistan Airlines

Starting this winter season, Uzbekistan Airlines will commence flights to Tashkent, twice a week. This presents a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and vibrant culture of Uzbekistan.

Wideroe

The Norwegian airline Wideroe will add Bergen to its winter flight schedule in January 2024, making Norway’s charming coastal city more accessible to travelers seeking adventure.

BeOnd

For a touch of luxury, BeOnd, the new Maledivian airline, will connect Munich with Male using an Airbus A319 with exclusive business class seating every Wednesday and Sunday. Indulge in opulence and comfort on your journey.

SmartLynx

SmartLynx will provide a twice-weekly service to Ras al Khaimah, the northernmost of the United Arab Emirates, offering you a unique Arabian experience.

Etihad Airways

Etihad Airways is increasing the frequency of its existing connection to Abu Dhabi from one flight a day to ten flights a week. This enhanced service ensures more flexibility for travel plans.

Marabu Airlines

In the realm of traditional tourism, Marabu Airlines is set to kick off flights to the Canary Islands. Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, and Tenerife are on the list of sunny destinations to explore during the winter season, providing a perfect escape from the colder weather.

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