Frankfurt Main’s Terminal 3 Is Built To Last

Those of you have flown through Frankfurt Am Main airport will know how the airport is a metropolis of buildings and gates, servicing hundreds of flights a day all around the world – overwhelming at first, the airport has announced their designs for their new Terminal 3, situated on the southern Apron of the airport. The silhouette of the terminal is already in existence, where aircraft are parked on the ‘V’ shaped spurs that will jut out of the main terminal structure.

The first construction phase in 2015 will include the impressive and imposing arrivals and departures halls, controlled-access areas, retail and catering areas, as well as the two piers each handling Schengen and Non-Schengen traffic. Being flexible is part of the design concept, each pier being able to be expanded as demand increases.

“This flexible design will allow us to meet future challenges. Terminal 3 also takes into account the implications of demographic trends for travel,” Dr. Ulrich Kipper, Fraport AG’s Head of Corporate Infrastructure Management explains, “In terms of design, Terminal 3 features a clear architectural style and creates an atmosphere of well-being.” The terminal is awash with warm materials, such as wood, and calm neutral and tonal colors. Daylight in the check-in hall and in the passenger staircases contributes to the atmosphere of well-being. The terminal also has great green credentials – with over 50% of the energy needed for the terminal coming from green sources.

The new terminal has been designed to accommodate large passenger figures, the first construction phase includes the initial 2 piers and will serve 14 million passengers per year. Later, when fully completed Terminal 3 will be able to handle 25 million passengers annually. An insider at the airport has mentioned that the terminal will be connected to the two older northern terminals by extending the PTS (known as SkyLine in FRA) which runs on pedestals in 20-30ft above ground. The connection to T3 will be in a small ditch running along the perimeter offering seamless connections.

There is something inherently retro and solid about the design concept, and sits at the opposite design spectrum from the light and flexible build of Mexico City’s New International Airport, but that doesn’t mean it is any less admirable. The solidity, and angular design is directional, purposeful and mirrors the design of the other terminals at the airport, meaning that the passenger experience will feel consistent, whilst pushing forward the design of the entire airport. Were looking forward to watching this terminal as it starts construction next year.