Roberta Aguirre
Frankfurt Airport is a busy hub with flights to and from destinations across the world. The airport has two terminals and four piers (A/Z, B, C and D/E) connected by the Skyline train. When transferring at Frankfurt Airport, passengers may need to go through security and passport control, depending on their departure and destination airports. It is recommended that travellers give themselves a couple of hours between flights to account for potential delays and the time needed to transfer between terminals and piers.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Transport options | Shared taxi, private taxi, shuttle bus |
| Visa requirements | Schengen Visa covers all 26 countries in the Schengen Area, including Germany |
| Transit time | 1 hour 10 minutes is a common transit time, but some sources recommend a minimum layover of 2-3 hours |
| Immigration | All travellers must go through Schengen immigration in Frankfurt, which can take time |
| Customs | Customs will take place at the final destination, not in Frankfurt |
| Security | Security checks may be required when transferring, and fast lanes are available at most major security checkpoints |
| Passport control | Passport control is required when travelling from a non-Schengen country to a Schengen country, or vice versa |
| Terminal transfer | The Skyline train connects different terminals and piers, and there is also a bus for terminal transfers |
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What You'll Learn
Allow enough time for transfers at Frankfurt Airport
When transferring at Frankfurt Airport, it is important to allow enough time to navigate this large and often busy airport. The airport itself recommends making use of the fast lanes available at most major security checkpoints if your onward flight is tight. However, you may still have to go through a security check, so it is important to plan for this and observe regulations on carrying liquids, especially duty-free goods.
The time you will need to transfer depends on a number of factors, including whether you are staying in the same terminal, whether you need to go through security, and whether you need to go through immigration. If you are staying in Terminal 1, you may not need to go through security at all. If you are on a single ticket, your bags will be checked through, but if you miss your connection, you will be rebooked onto the next flight.
If you are flying on a single ticket and remaining within the same terminal, 1 hour and 10 minutes should be enough time to transfer, as this is a standard transit time for such journeys. However, if you are flying on different tickets or need to change terminals, you will need to allow more time. 1 hour and 25 minutes should be enough time, but this will be tight, and you will need to go straight to the front of the queue. Ideally, you should allow 2 to 3 hours for a layover to give yourself plenty of time.
To transfer between terminals, you can take the Skyline train, which links Pier A/Z, Pier B, Pier C, and Terminal 2 Pier D/E. There are separate platforms for passengers in Schengen and non-Schengen areas, and you can use escalators or lifts to reach the platforms.
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Follow signs to the right gate
When transferring at Frankfurt Airport, it is important to follow the signs to the right gate to ensure a smooth and efficient transfer. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the airport and reach your gate successfully:
Find Your Gate Information
Firstly, locate your gate information. Your gate number may be printed on your boarding pass. If not, look it up on the departure screens located throughout the airport. Knowing your gate number beforehand will help you follow the signs and ensure you are heading in the right direction.
Follow the Signage
Frankfurt Airport is a large and busy airport, often described as a maze. Keep a close eye on the overhead signs that indicate the direction to various gates and piers. These signs will guide you to your designated gate. Pay attention to the signs that specify different areas, such as Schengen and non-Schengen zones, as you may need to use separate entrances and platforms depending on your flight's origin and destination.
Use the Skyline Train or Shuttle Bus
If you need to travel between terminals or piers, you can use the Skyline train or the shuttle bus. The Skyline train connects Pier A/Z, Pier B, Pier C, and Terminal 2 Pier D/E. It has separate carriages for the Schengen and non-Schengen areas, ensuring passengers from these areas do not mix. If you are transferring within the Schengen area, you can also use the shuttle bus, which is accessible to passengers.
Go Through Security and Immigration
Along your journey to the gate, you will encounter security and immigration checkpoints. These are mandatory and can take some time, so factor this into your schedule. Fast lanes are available at most major security checkpoints if your onward flight is tight, but you may still need to go through security checks and observe regulations regarding liquids and duty-free goods.
Passport Control
Whether you need to go through passport control depends on whether your departure and destination airports are inside or outside the Schengen area. If you are travelling between a Schengen and a non-Schengen country, passport control is typically required. Ensure you have your passport ready and, if necessary, obtain a transit visa in advance.
By diligently following the signs, using the Skyline train or shuttle bus, and allowing enough time for security and immigration, you can efficiently navigate your way to the right gate at Frankfurt Airport and continue your journey.
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Take the Skyline train to transfer between terminals
If you need to transfer between terminals at Frankfurt Airport, the Skyline train is a free and efficient option. The Skyline is an automatic people mover system that has been in operation since 1994 and links the airport's two terminals in approximately 8 minutes. The service is especially useful if you are short on time, as it has a short headway of 90 seconds and can be faster than walking or taking a shuttle bus.
To find the Skyline train, look for the Bombardier CX-100 coaches outside the terminal buildings. The Skyline route runs outside the airport, connecting Terminals 1 and 2. When planning your journey, note that the Skyline service may be suspended for maintenance or construction. For example, it was closed for several weeks in early 2023.
If you have time before your connecting flight, you can also explore the various services and amenities within the terminals. Frankfurt Airport offers lounges, a transit hotel, napcabs, gaming and movie areas, restaurants, and unique shopping opportunities.
For those who prefer to walk, it is possible to walk inside the terminal building by remaining in the non-Schengen transit area. However, this option may be confusing and time-consuming, especially with checked luggage. Another alternative is to take the free shuttle bus, which is also signposted in the arrivals area and offers good connectivity to the long-distance train station.
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Go through security and immigration
When transferring at Frankfurt Airport, you will need to go through security and immigration. This is a quick process, but it is important to plan time for it and observe the regulations on carrying liquids, especially duty-free goods.
If you are flying with a single ticket, your bags will be checked through to your final destination, and you will not need to retrieve them or go through customs in Frankfurt. However, you will still need to go through immigration and passport control, as this is your first entry into the Schengen area. Make sure you have valid identification, such as a passport or ID card, as immigration officials may request additional documents such as proof of accommodation or onward travel.
To clear border checks faster, you can use the automated EasyPASS system if you have an electronic passport from the EU, EEA, or Switzerland and are over 12 years old. This system is available in both terminals, right next to the conventional border checks. Simply place your e-passport or personal ID on the document scanner, and the system will authenticate your digital data. Then, step into the lock and look at the camera so that the system can compare your image with your biometric passport photo. If the data matches, the lock will open, and you can proceed.
If you are staying in Terminal 1, you may not need to go through security again to get to your next plane. However, if you go to baggage claim by mistake, you will need to go through security again. Fast lanes are available at most major security checkpoints, and you can use them if your onward flight is tight and displayed on the monitor at the checkpoint.
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Book a transfer service for onward travel
Frankfurt Airport offers a range of transfer services to suit different needs and budgets, from cost-effective shared shuttle buses to luxurious private chauffeur-driven vehicles. Booking a transfer service in advance can provide a seamless and stress-free travel experience, especially for those seeking comfort and efficiency.
Shuttle Bus Services
Shuttle Direct offers a range of inexpensive shared taxi and shuttle bus services at Frankfurt Airport. These services provide punctual and friendly drivers who will ensure a hassle-free transfer to your destination. The shuttle buses operate between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, as well as the P36 bus parking lot for long-distance buses. They are available every 5 to 10 minutes, depending on the time of day, and are free of charge.
Private Transfer Services
For those seeking a more exclusive experience, private transfer services such as Transfeero and Blacklane offer chauffeur-driven vehicles that can be booked in advance. These services provide a professional and personalised experience, with chauffeurs greeting you at the arrivals gate and assisting with your luggage. Private transfers offer flexibility and convenience, allowing you to travel according to your own schedule.
Online Booking
Many transfer services offer user-friendly online booking systems that allow you to confirm your onward travel arrangements instantly. Secure payment methods are used to ensure the safety of your personal and credit card information during the booking process. Pre-booking your transport can provide peace of mind and take the stress out of arriving at Frankfurt Airport, allowing you to focus on enjoying your journey.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended to give yourself at least a couple of hours between flights when transferring at Frankfurt Airport.
The Skyline train is the fastest way to transfer between terminals at Frankfurt Airport. It links Pier A/Z, Pier B, Pier C, and Terminal 2 Pier D/E.
You don't need to go through customs, but your bags do. Customs will take place at your final destination. However, you will need to go through immigration and, depending on your nationality, you may require a transit visa.
If you miss your connecting flight, you will automatically be rebooked onto the next available flight.
There are a variety of transfer services available at Frankfurt Airport, including shared and private taxis, shuttle buses, and private transfers. These can be booked online prior to your arrival.
