Transit Time in Frankfurt Airport - Short Connections

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Two quick questions about connections through Frankfurt:

1) SFO --> Berlin Tegel via FRA. Ticket is completely booked through United and the second leg is on LH metal. Will 1.5 hrs be enough to clear immigration and make the connection to Berlin if I'm carrying on my luggage?

2) Second part of the trip (open jaw) is Budapest --> Paris CDG via Frankfurt, booked completely through United, but again, on Lufthansa metal. Since it's intra-Schengen, they have recommended a 45 min connection in FRA. I've heard good things about LH customer service, but even I'm wary about a 45 min connection. I know it's the reported "minimum standard" but does anyone think that's enough time?

Thanks!



Best Answer

  1. Yes. 1.5 hour is plenty unless there is unusual back up at immigration or your incoming flight is significantly delayed
  2. That's on the tight side. Mainly the problem is getting from gate to gate. Frankfurt is airport is huge so it depends a bit how far the gates are apart. If both flights arrive/depart from Pier A (typically for Schengen flights), than it's doable. If you have to get from/to B or C to A, you need to walk fast.

In either case LH will rebook you on the next available flight if you miss it.




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How much time do you need between connecting flights Frankfurt?

Airport guidelines also suggest a minimum of 45 minutes for international connections, but given the size of the airport, allowing 60-90 minutes would provide a more comfortable buffer.

Is 45 min enough for connecting flight in Frankfurt?

Yes, it's possible, especially if your arriving plane is on time. The official minimum connection time is 45 minutes, and I've made a connection once there in under half an hour.

Is 1 hour enough for connecting flights Frankfurt?

For those with through checked baggage or no luggage, on a single ticket, I would recommend a minimum 1.5 hour connection time, even though airlines can book you with a shorter connection time. If you're on separate tickets but with no luggage or through checked luggage, I'd recommend a 2 hour or more connection time.

What is the minimum connecting time in Frankfurt airport?

Minimum Connection Time in Frankfurt Airport You can see the minimum time required for connections in Frankfurt Airport below. Between domestic flights: 45 min. Between domestic and international flights: 45 min. Between international flights: 45 min.



FRANKFURT AIRPORT TRANSFER - Transit Procedure for Connection Flight - Airport Travel video




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