Erfurt Airport

Erfurt-Weimar Airport (ERF), the largest air hub in the federal state of Thuringia, serves as the gateway to the so-called "green heart" of Germany. Located just a few kilometres from the cultural centres of Erfurt and Weimar, this airport combines a rich history dating back to 1935 with modern infrastructure. Today, it specialises mainly in seasonal charter flights, connecting the region with popular European resorts and offering travellers a convenient and quick start to their holiday.

One of the main advantages of Erfurt-Weimar Airport is its exceptional transport accessibility. You can reach the city centre in just 15-20 minutes by tram No. 4, which stops right outside the terminal. Additionally, the airport has direct access to the A4 and A71 motorways, making it convenient for those travelling by car. The terminal itself is very compact — the distance from the car park or tram stop to the aircraft is less than 200 metres, which significantly saves time and effort for passengers.

Despite its small size, the airport offers all necessary amenities for a comfortable wait for your flight. Passengers have access to a bistro and Duty Free shop, where you can have a snack and purchase goods for your journey. For those travelling light, luggage storage facilities are available. The airport also features an observation terrace offering a view of the runway, and all necessary services are provided for passengers with reduced mobility.

• Official Website: www.flughafen-erfurt-weimar.de
• Information Desk Phone: +49 (0) 361 656 2200
• Address: Binderslebener Landstraße 100, 99092 Erfurt, Germany
• Email: information@flughafen-erfurt-weimar.de
• Social Media: The airport maintains active pages on Facebook and Instagram, where you can follow the latest news and updates.
• Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage was lost during the flight, you must contact your airline's baggage tracing service directly. For personal items lost within the terminal, please contact the information desk via the general airport phone number.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For all general questions related to airport operations and passenger service, you may contact the information desk at +49 (0) 361 656 2200.

Erfurt-Weimar Airport (ERF) is conveniently located just a few kilometres west of the centre of Erfurt, making it accessible quickly and by several means. The choice of the best option depends on your budget, time, and amount of luggage.

Public Transport is the most economical and popular method. Tram line No. 4 (Stadtbahn-Linie 4) runs directly to the airport building, connecting it with the city centre and the main railway station (Hauptbahnhof). The journey takes approximately 20-25 minutes, and trams run regularly throughout the day. This is the ideal choice for travellers who wish to save money and avoid traffic jams.

Taxi or Transfer is a more comfortable option, especially if you are travelling with children or a large amount of luggage. A taxi ride from the city centre to the airport will take about 15-20 minutes and cost approximately 20-25 Euros. The taxi rank is located directly outside the arrivals terminal exit. You can also book a private transfer in advance, which is often convenient for large groups.

Car Rental is an excellent choice for those planning to travel around Germany and explore the picturesque region of Thuringia. Offices of several major rental companies operate at Erfurt Airport. If you are driving to the airport in your own or a rented car, several car parks are at your disposal. Zones for both short-term and long-term parking are provided. To get the best rate for long-term parking, it is recommended to book a space online in advance.

If you have not found a suitable flight to Erfurt, it is worth considering arriving at one of the nearby airports. The largest of these are Leipzig/Halle Airport (LEJ) and Nuremberg Airport (NUE). Alternatively, you can also consider Kassel-Calden Airport (KSF), Paderborn Lippstadt Airport (PAD), and even Karlovy Vary Airport (KLV) in the neighbouring Czech Republic. From these airports, Erfurt is easily accessible by train or car.

Erfurt Airport (ERF), officially known as Erfurt-Weimar Airport, represents a modern and compact aviation hub in Germany. Its structure is simple and straightforward, making it particularly convenient for travellers. The airport consists of one main terminal that serves all domestic and international flights.

The airport layout is logical and intuitive. The terminal is functionally divided into two zones, sometimes designated as Terminals A and B, but physically it is a single building. On the ground floor (Level 0) is the Arrivals Zone, where baggage claim belts, customs control, and car rental desks are located. This is also where passengers are met by friends, relatives, or transfer services.

On the first floor (Level 1) is the Departures Zone. Here, travellers will find check-in counters and baggage drop-off points. After check-in, passengers pass through security control, followed by a small waiting lounge with boarding gates. Thanks to the airport's compact size, moving between the check-in, security, and gate areas takes mere minutes, significantly reducing pre-flight stress.

Since the airport has only one terminal, there is no need for transfers between terminals. All services and gates are within walking distance of each other. Registration and security procedures usually proceed very quickly. It is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5-2 hours before international flights and approximately 1-1.5 hours before domestic flights. This time is more than sufficient to complete all formalities without rushing, enjoy a coffee, and reach your boarding gate.

The history of Erfurt-Weimar Airport (ERF) reflects the turbulent events of the 20th century in Germany. Its story began in 1935, when an airfield was opened north of the city, initially used for military purposes. After the Second World War, it ceased operations for a time, but by 1957 it resumed work as a civilian airport of the German Democratic Republic, serving domestic flights, mainly to Berlin, as well as charters to Black Sea resorts.

A key stage of development began after the reunification of Germany in 1990. The airport underwent extensive modernisation to meet international standards. In 1995, an extended runway of 2,600 metres was put into operation, allowing it to accommodate larger aircraft. Shortly thereafter, a new modern terminal was built, significantly increasing capacity and comfort for passengers.

In 2011, the airport received its modern name — Erfurt-Weimar. This was done to emphasise its role as a gateway to the cultural region of Thuringia, known not only for its capital, Erfurt, but also for the city of Weimar, associated with the names of Goethe and Schiller. Today, the airport specialises in serving tourist flights to popular European destinations, continuing to play an important role in the transport system of central Germany.

Erfurt Airport (ERF) offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Despite its compact size, the terminal is well-equipped and designed for traveller convenience.

Before departure, you can have a snack in a café or bistro, as well as purchase travel goods, souvenirs, or perfumes in the Duty Free shop. Free Wi-Fi is available for passengers throughout the airport, and charging stations for electronic devices are provided in the waiting lounges.

For a more comfortable wait, passengers can utilise the business lounge (VIP hall). Special services are provided for travellers with specific needs: passengers with children can use the mother and child rooms, and all necessary assistance is available for people with reduced mobility upon prior request. In case of emergency, first aid is available at the airport.

ATMs are installed in the terminal for financial transactions; however, please note that a separate currency exchange office may not be available, so it is best to ensure you have Euros in advance. Business travellers arriving in the capital of Thuringia, one of the picturesque regions of Germany, can make use of conference rooms. Although there are no hotels directly within the airport building, several hotels are located in the vicinity and are easily accessible by taxi.

Erfurt-Weimar Airport (ERF) is a compact regional aviation hub, so the selection of dining establishments here is not as extensive as in major hubs, yet it fully covers the basic needs of travellers. The main options are concentrated in the general terminal hall and the departure zone, offering both the opportunity for a full meal and a quick snack before a flight.

In the public area of the terminal (landside), before passing security control, the main bistro-restaurant is located. This is an ideal place for those who wish to have a leisurely lunch or dinner, as well as for those seeing off or meeting passengers. European and German cuisine is served here. Do not miss the chance to try some Thuringian specialties if they are on the menu, for example, the famous Thüringer Rostbratwurst sausages. Prices here are average. Regarding special dietary requests (vegetarian, gluten-free, or halal options), it is best to check available options with the staff directly when ordering.

After passing security control, in the departure zone (airside), a café-bar operates for passengers. This establishment focuses on quick service. Here you can grab coffee, tea, soft drinks, as well as fresh pastries, sandwiches, and light snacks. This is the best option for a quick snack immediately before boarding the plane. Prices here are comparable to city cafés.

Please note that the opening hours of establishments at Erfurt Airport are closely tied to the flight schedule and may change. Outside of peak hours or at night, they may be closed. In this case, vending machines with drinks and snacks are installed in the terminal building and are available 24/7.

To ensure your journey through the airport of Erfurt goes as smoothly as possible, take advantage of our tips. It is a small and convenient airport, but proper preparation will help avoid unnecessary stress and save your time.

Arrival Time: Despite the airport's compact size, it is recommended to arrive 2–2.5 hours before international flights and 1.5–2 hours before flights within the Schengen area. This time will be sufficient to complete all formalities without rushing, even during peak hours.

Check-in and Security: To save time, complete online check-in for your flight in advance and save the boarding pass on your phone. The security checkpoint here usually operates quickly. Prepare liquids in advance (in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag), and be ready to remove laptops and other large electronics from your hand luggage.

Seat Selection: If you want to admire the views, choose a window seat. If the ability to stand up freely and disembark among the first is more important to you, your place is by the aisle. Most airlines allow you to select a seat during ticket purchase or online check-in.

Hand Luggage: Standard rules prohibit carrying liquids in containers exceeding 100 ml, sharp objects, flammable substances, and weapons. All liquids must be packed in a single transparent bag with a volume of no more than 1 litre. Before leaving for the airport, be sure to check the hand luggage allowance of your airline to avoid extra charges for excess weight or size.

Connecting Passengers: Erfurt Airport is rarely used as a major transit hub, so transfers here usually proceed quickly. Clarify at check-in whether you will need to collect and re-check your luggage. If your luggage is checked through to the final destination, you can proceed directly to the departure zone of your next flight.

Customs Control: When arriving from non-EU countries, you will need to pass through customs control, choosing the "green" channel (if you have nothing to declare) or the "red" channel (if you are carrying goods subject to declaration). For travellers within the EU, including Germany, customs formalities for personal items are not applicable.

Saving Time and Money: Book a taxi or transfer online in advance — this is often cheaper. To avoid spending money on water, bring an empty bottle and refill it at a drinking fountain after passing security control. Travelling light, with only hand luggage, will also save you time waiting for luggage and money on checking it in.

Flight Delays: In case of a flight delay or cancellation, first contact your airline representative at the airport. According to EU regulations, for lengthy delays, you are entitled to drinks, meals, and, if necessary, hotel accommodation. Keep all receipts for unforeseen expenses for potential compensation.