Frankfurt Airport to open new Terminal 3 with 19 million passenger capacity in 2026

Credit: Fraport

Fraport AG has confirmed that Terminal 3 at Frankfurt Airport (FRA) will officially open on 22 April 2026, following the successful completion of final inspections by the relevant authorities, including fire protection. With these approvals now in place, the terminal is no longer classed as a construction site, allowing Fraport to focus on operational preparations.

“This is a very special moment for Fraport and also for me personally,” said Dr Stefan Schulte, Fraport AG’s CEO. “We held the groundbreaking ceremony for Terminal 3 ten years ago, and today we’re standing in one of Europe’s most advanced airport facilities with our sights set firmly on its inauguration on April 22. My thanks and respect go to everyone who has been involved in the project and also to the responsible authorities, all of which have contributed to the success of this mammoth construction project. I’m already looking forward to welcoming the first guests at Terminal 3.”

With inspections complete, the final phase of work is now underway. This includes the installation of 21 security check lanes featuring state-of-the-art CT scanners, the completion of food and retail areas, and continued testing of the baggage handling system. Fraport is also preparing for a series of trial operations to ensure smooth passenger processes. Between 27 January and 16 April 2026, around 8,000 volunteer test passengers will help to simulate real airport operations and confirm that all systems function efficiently.

Construction of Terminal 3 began in October 2015 and has progressed over the past decade despite significant challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, the war in Ukraine and global supply chain disruptions. When it opens, the terminal’s initial configuration with Piers G, H and J will have capacity for up to 19 million passengers a year.

Fraport Ausbau Süd GmbH (FAS), a wholly owned subsidiary of Fraport AG, managed the construction work. Harald Rohr, technical director of FAS, said: “The successful conclusion of this huge project under very challenging conditions sends the strong message that, despite the pandemic, the war in Ukraine and massive disruptions of global supply chains, we’ve succeeded in implementing the new terminal on schedule and on budget.”

Stephanie Pudwitz, commercial director of FAS, added: “Credit for this success goes to the strong team spirit and commitment of everyone involved. I’m proud of the performance of every single one of them.”

Once Terminal 3 opens in the southern part of Frankfurt Airport, airlines will gradually transfer from Terminal 2 in four phases between mid-April and early June 2026. The terminal will handle both Schengen and non-Schengen flights.

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