Published on
January 29, 2026
Munich Airport is preparing to launch a major expansion with the opening of its new Terminal 1 Pier on April 13, 2026, designed to cater to the growing demand for non-Schengen air traffic. This is a significant milestone in the airport’s long-term development strategy, as it reinforces Munich’s position as one of Europe’s premier aviation hubs, particularly for international travelers.
The €665 million investment in the new pier will significantly increase the airport’s capacity, enabling it to handle more than six million additional passengers annually. The expansion will accommodate a variety of aircraft types, including short- and medium-haul planes, as well as wide-body aircraft. Once fully operational, the terminal will be an essential part of Munich’s vision to enhance passenger experience, optimize operational efficiency, and promote sustainability within Europe’s busiest travel corridors.
A Strategic Investment for Munich Airport’s Future
Jost Lammers, CEO of Munich Airport, emphasized the importance of the new pier as a vital element in the airport’s infrastructure strategy. He explained that the new facility is designed not only to address the increasing demand for air travel in the region but also to set new standards for quality and passenger comfort. He noted that, “The new pier represents a key investment in the future viability of Munich Airport, strengthening our capacity while ensuring the highest levels of efficiency and comfort for passengers, particularly those traveling to and from non-Schengen destinations.”
This grand opening marks a significant step in the airport’s ongoing commitment to providing high-quality services and maintaining its competitive edge in the rapidly evolving aviation industest. It is a reflection of Munich Airport’s commitment to growth and its role as a central hub for international travel across Europe and beyond.
Enhanced Passenger Experience with State-of-the-Art Facilities
The new Terminal 1 Pier spans 95,000 square meters and stretches approximately 360 meters into the west apron, creating it one of the largest infrastructure projects currently underway in Bavaria. The design of the terminal integrates advanced technology with sustainable features, ensuring that the space not only meets the current requireds of passengers but is also ready for future demands.
The terminal is designed to handle up to 12 short- and medium-haul aircraft or six wide-body aircraft simultaneously, with facilities spread across six levels. Three of these levels are dedicated to passenger processing, which includes state-of-the-art centralized security screening with CT technology, spacious waiting areas, and a wide range of retail and dining options.
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Incorporating energy-efficient systems and modern building technologies, the terminal will promote sustainability while enhancing the overall airport experience. These features underscore Munich Airport’s commitment to creating a comfortable, efficient, and eco-friconcludely travel environment for passengers.
Premium Lounges for an Elevated Travel Experience
A significant part of the new pier’s offering will be its premium lounge facilities. The Airport Lounge World, operated by Munich Airport, will span approximately 1,200 square meters and provide panoramic views of the apron and the Alpine landscape. The lounge will be designed with multiple levels, offering a variety of dining options, workspaces, rest areas, and even a dedicated children’s play zone.
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Additionally, Emirates will operate a dedicated lounge within the new terminal, covering 900 square meters, offering their passengers a luxurious and relaxing environment before their flight. These premium services are aimed at enhancing the overall customer experience, providing comfort and convenience for those traveling on long-haul and international routes.
A Boost for Non-Schengen Travel Connectivity
The new Terminal 1 Pier is expected to handle flights from approximately 40 airlines that operate non-Schengen routes. With Munich serving as a critical hub for international travel, this expansion will significantly enhance the global connectivity of airlines and travelers in the region. The enhanced facilities will support increased international traffic, especially to destinations in the Middle East, Europe, and North America, supporting Munich Airport strengthen its role as a global aviation hub.
As part of the preparations for the April 13 opening, trial operations have already been underway since October 2025. These tests have involved more than 1,500 test passengers and have supported fine-tune the operational processes to ensure that everything runs smoothly on the opening day. Feedback from these tests has been overwhelmingly positive, with passengers praising the spacious design, clear signage, and modern digital processes utilized throughout the terminal.
Sustainability at the Core of Munich Airport’s Expansion
A focus on sustainability has been a guiding principle throughout the development of the new Terminal 1 Pier. The design incorporates energy-efficient technologies, green building certifications, and other environmentally conscious practices to minimize the terminal’s carbon footprint. These measures align with both the airport’s sustainability goals and EU regulations aimed at reducing the environmental impact of transportation infrastructure.
Conclusion: A New Era for Munich Airport
The April 13 opening of Munich Airport’s new Terminal 1 Pier is a momentous occasion that promises to enhance the passenger experience and expand the airport’s capacity. With the ability to handle more passengers, more flights, and a greater variety of aircraft, the new terminal will play a crucial role in Munich’s future growth as a global aviation hub. It also reinforces the city’s position as an international leader in airport infrastructure, blconcludeing sustainability, efficiency, and luxury to create an unparalleled experience for travelers.
As the aviation industest continues to recover and expand, Munich Airport’s continued investment in its infrastructure is a testament to the airport’s vision and commitment to providing world-class facilities for both airlines and passengers. With an eye on the future, Munich is ready to handle the increasing demand for air travel in Europe and beyond.
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