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BUILDING BOOM AT FRANKFURT AIRPORT

Busy building operations are almost a tradition at the Frankfurt airport. First the runway in the west, then the new terminal 2, and now the complete renovation of the old terminal 1, which is scheduled for the next three years. Since the building was erected in the beginning of the seventies it will not be cheap to modernize it up to the standard of terminal 2 which was opened in 1994. The airport corporation FAG and Lufthansa must invest DM 1,5 billion. The main share (1,3 billion) is coming from FAG since Lufthansa is the most important airline for continental Europe's largest air traffic hub. In 1995, 54 percent of the 38,2 million passengers in Frankfurt were booked on a Lufthansa flight.

However, the renovation of terminal 1 will not increase its capacities. The terminal is just to become better and more modern. According to Lufthansa project manager, Hans Besser, the flow on the ground is to be simplified, accelerated, and optimized.

This begins with the access to the airport. The new Inter City Express train station, which will be located across terminal 1, is supposed to be ready in 2000. However, it is not sure yet, if it will linked to the Sky Line shuttle system which connects terminal 1 and terminal 2.

Terminal 1's airgate A is in the process of being refinished to the new Lufthansa look and will be extended to the West by twelve new gates with fingers over the next four years. Finally a long cherished wish of Lufthansa will come true: The airline will be able to dock most of its flights directly at the building, such omitting the need to transport the passengers over the ramp, something that is currently obligatory for 30 percent of Lufthansa's passengers in Frankfurt.

Airgate B already shows how Lufthansa will present itself on its most important hub in the year 2000. The newly renovated gate area from B30 to B33 was opened on the beginning of July, the new ticket counters and waiting rooms look modern and friendly. The new design also features separate gates with lounge service for business and first class passengers.

From page 24 of FLUG REVUE 9/96