A new long-term agreement between Lufthansa Group and Munich Airport sets out plans to significantly expand their joint operations at Munich, extending their partnership through 2056 and laying the groundwork for continued growth at one of Europe’s leading aviation hubs. The deal enables the next phase of development at Terminal 2, including the planned construction of a new pier extension that will increase capacity and support future demand, particularly driven by an expanded long-haul fleet based in Munich.
“Trust-based, long-term partnerships are a key factor in our success as a leading global airline group. In Munich, this is particularly evident in the fact that, together with FMG and its shareholders, we have created a high-performance hub that has been among the world’s top airports for many years. With premium quality, reliability, and customer focus, Munich has become a central pillar of our hub network. The jointly planned expansion of Terminal 2 and the resulting increase in capacity will further contribute to our unique partnership and shared success story. This investment in the future is far more than an infrastructure project—it is a clear commitment to Bavaria as a gateway to the world, to Germany as a business location, and to the global competitiveness of European aviation hubs. The current geopolitical crises demonstrate once again how important state of the art infrastructure is as part of independent global connectivity. We will also continue to invest in our passenger and cargo hub in Frankfurt in the coming years. Like no other company, the Lufthansa Group stands for connecting Germany and Europe with the world.”
– Carsten Spohr, Chairman of the Executive Board and CEO of Deutsche Lufthansa AG.
The proposed addition, referred to as the “T-Pier”, will connect to the existing satellite building at a right angle on its eastern side and is expected to boost annual passenger capacity by up to 10 million. With an anticipated opening in 2035, the project marks a major step forward in infrastructure development while maintaining the airport’s existing two-runway operations. The agreement also formally initiates detailed planning for construction, reinforcing the long-term strategic alignment between the two partners.
“Congratulations on Lufthansa’s 100th anniversary! Bavaria is a hub for aviation, and Munich Airport is our gateway to the world. Since 2003, the airport and Lufthansa have maintained a globally unique and successful partnership on a global scale. Together, we plan to further expand the satellite at Terminal 2 to ultimately accommodate up to an additional ten million passengers per year. In addition, Lufthansa will expand its long-haul network in Munich with additional long-haul aircraft and even greater quality and service. This is a landmark deal and a milestone for the aviation hub. As the Bavarian state government, we strongly support aviation: We will continue to expand our hubs, further develop our expertise and capacity, and advocate for a reduction in air traffic tax. As an export nation, we need the aviation industry. Only in this way will we succeed in international competition. Thank you for the excellent cooperation and all the best for the future!”
– Dr. Markus Söder, Bavarian Minister-President.
The expanded infrastructure is expected to deliver economic benefits across the region, including job creation and sustained value generation in Bavaria, while also enhancing connectivity for passengers travelling to and from southern Germany. The development is positioned as a key contributor to strengthening Germany’s role as a global aviation hub.
“The agreement strengthens not only the airport region but the entire Bavarian economic area. For passengers, it means even better connections between Bavaria and the world. We are pleased that we have succeeded in bringing Lufthansa on board for this joint growth strategy.”
– Albert Füracker, Bavarian Minister of Finance and Home Affairs and Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Munich Airport.
The collaboration between Lufthansa and Munich Airport dates back to the 1990s and was formalised with the opening of Terminal 2 in 2003, when both parties established a joint venture model that remains unique in Europe. Under this structure, both organisations share responsibility for the operation and development of the terminal facilities. Over time, Munich has developed into a highly efficient hub, widely recognised for its service quality and passenger experience.
“The partnership with Lufthansa enables us to significantly strengthen and expand the international hub. It is a milestone in the development of the airport hub. For our guests, it means a significantly better offering and even greater comfort”
– Jost Lammers, CEO of Munich Airport.
Terminal 2 has consistently operated at or near capacity since shortly after opening, prompting earlier expansion through the addition of a satellite building in 2016. Today, the combined facilities handle tens of millions of passengers annually, with Lufthansa Group airlines and partners exclusively using the terminal. The new expansion is intended to ensure that capacity keeps pace with growing demand while maintaining high standards of efficiency and comfort.
Alongside developments in Munich, Lufthansa Group is also continuing to invest in its primary hub at Frankfurt, including plans to expand intercontinental traffic capacity and enhance cargo operations. A new cargo handling centre and ongoing terminal developments form part of a broader strategy to optimise hub performance and improve the overall travel experience across its network.
Overall, the renewed agreement reflects a shared commitment to long-term growth, infrastructure investment and enhanced global connectivity, reinforcing Munich’s position as a key gateway for international air travel.
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