Frankfurt Airport's new Terminal 3 will open in April 2026: everything you need to know

The countdown has officially begun. The new Terminal 3 of theFrankfurt Airport (FRA) is almost ready: the ribbon cutting is set for next April 22, 2026. After more than ten years of work, Fraport AG--the company that operates the airport--announced the completion of official inspections, including stringent fire inspections, which signaled the end of the construction phase.

A state-of-the-art terminal ready to accommodate 19 million passengers

With an initial capacity of 19 million passengers per year, Terminal 3 is set to be one of the most modern and technologically advanced in Europe. The project, which started in October 2015, includes the piers G, H and J and will be operational for Schengen and non-Schengen flights. This means that the new terminal will be able to handle both connections within the European area without border control and intercontinental flights.

Technology and passenger comfort: 21 security gates, automated baggage handling system, and lots of stores and restaurants

The new Terminal 3 will offer a completely new travel experience. Among the new features must be mentioned the 21 security gates of the latest generation, equipped with CT scanner for quick checks without the need to remove liquids or electronic devices from carry-on luggage; a automated baggage handling system and subjected to specific tests to ensure efficiency and accuracy; last but not least, a wide range of stores, restaurants and relaxation areas.

From January to April, 8,000 volunteers will test the efficiency of the new terminal

To ensure that each process runs smoothly, Fraport will initiate a large-scale testing operation: between January 27 and April 16, 2026, about 8,000 volunteer passengers will simulate real travel scenarios on 21 test days. This will put every operational aspect, from flow management to security checks to baggage claim, to the test.

57 companies (including ITA) will move from T2 to the new Terminal 3

Once operational, Terminal 3 will accommodate 57 airlines currently based in the Terminal 2 (including ITA Airways e Lufthansa, ed.), who will move - progressively - between mid-April and early June 2026. 

An ambitious project completed amid global challenges

Despite difficulties encountered during the past few years-including, to name a few, the Covid-19 pandemic, Russia's invasion of Ukraine, and disruptions in global supply chains-the project was completed On schedule and without going over budget. This achievement was made possible by the work of Fraport Ausbau Süd GmbH (FAS), a subsidiary of Fraport AG that managed the entire construction.

"The success of this project demonstrates the strength of teamwork and determination to overcome every obstacle," said Harald Rohr, Technical Director of FAS.

Conclusion: Terminal 3 is poised to change the face of Frankfurt Airport

In short, it can be said that the next April 22, 2026 will not only be a symbolic date but the beginning of a real new era for one of Europe's busiest airports. Curiosity is high: we look forward to discovering the new Terminal.