Airport manager Fraport has developed a concept for redesigning the Terminal 1 (T1) forecourt and access roads at Frankfurt Airport in Germany. Initial work has already started on the €36m (US$41m) construction project which will last for approximately 14 months. The extensive refurbishment will focus on the terminal façade and entrances, as well as the pedestrian areas and roadways on the arrivals level of the terminal forecourt.
Details of the project include replacing the old perforated brick exterior of the terminal with a contemporary metal and glass façade. The walkways and roads in front of T1 will be resurfaced and the entire area will be brighter and more welcoming thanks to improved lighting. LED walls will be added to the middle zone of the forecourt to create a multi-media experience.
Dr Matthias Zieschang, executive board member for controlling and finance (CFO) at Fraport, said, “We wish to improve the travel experience significantly for our passengers, as well as the environment for airport staff. The redesigned forecourt will serve as an attractive reception area, especially for our international guests. Because regular terminal operations will continue during the construction phase, we ask passengers for their understanding about temporary traffic restrictions and rerouting.
“Due to the existing high utilization of T1, we are well aware of the situation facing drivers during peak hours. Thus, we are taking steps to alleviate traffic congestion, particularly in view of the growing passenger volumes at Frankfurt.”
In order to combat congestion, Fraport will install barriers to the access lanes at the arrivals and departures levels of T1. Traffic management will be similar to Terminal 2 (T2), whereby general traffic may use terminal access roads free of charge for the first 10 minutes. Once this period is exceeded, parking charges apply and must be paid at the automatic pay stations. Those who intend to park longer than 10 minutes in front of the terminal can use the multi-level or open-air car parks.