Frankfurt retains top spot for global hub connectivity

Frankfurt : According to Fraport's 2024 traffic figures, Frankfurt Airport (FRA) handled 61.6 million passengers, marking a 3.7pc increase compared to 2023. 

The airport saw strong demand for medium-haul flights to popular warm-weather destinations like Greece, Spain, Portugal, and Italy. In the long-haul market, North American routes remained popular, while flights to the Far East and South America also experienced significant growth.

In 2024, a total of 99 airlines operated flights from Frankfurt Airport (FRA) to 311 destinations across 98 countries. Frankfurt remains the world’s leading airport for hub connectivity, offering the most destinations for transfer passengers on direct connecting flights. However, passenger numbers in 2024 were still 12.7pc below pre-pandemic levels in 2019.

Fraport CEO Dr. Stefan Schulte emphasized the economic significance of Frankfurt’s extensive flight connections, noting, “Frankfurt Airport provides a crucial locational advantage for the German economy.” 

He also highlighted the growing challenge posed by rising government-imposed costs, which now reach extremely high levels. Schulte warned that these costs could threaten Germany’s competitive edge, as airlines increasingly invest in locations with lower fees. 

He noted that Fraport's airports outside Germany are growing faster, with many even setting new passenger records.

-B