Baden-Airpark

Karlsruhe/Baden-Baden Airport, often referred to as Baden-Airpark, is not merely a transport hub, but a true gateway to the very heart of Europe. Located on the site of a former Canadian military base, this cosy airport successfully combines German punctuality with the relaxed atmosphere of a resort region. It serves as an ideal entry point for several destinations at once: the famous thermal baths of Baden-Baden, the technological hub of Karlsruhe, and the picturesque vineyards of French Alsace are all within easy reach.

Baden-Airpark is valued by travellers for a number of unique advantages that distinguish it favourably from large, congested aviation hubs:

Compactness and Speed: Thanks to the small size of the terminal, all procedures — from check-in to boarding — are surprisingly fast. There are practically no huge queues here, and the journey from the car park to the check-in counter takes just a few minutes.

Low-Cost Centre: The airport is an important base for popular budget airlines. This makes it an excellent choice for economical tourists wishing to travel inexpensively to southern Germany or neighbouring France.

Convenient Location: The airport is located in the immediate vicinity of the legendary Black Forest. Furthermore, the French city of Strasbourg can be reached in just 40-50 minutes, allowing you to visit two countries in one trip.

Observation Terrace: For aviation enthusiasts, there is an open terrace offering a magnificent view of the runway and aircraft preparation for flights, which is particularly popular with children.

If you need to contact representatives of Baden-Airpark (FKB), please use the following contact information. Here you will find the main channels for communication with various airport services.

• Official Website: You will always find the most complete and up-to-date information on the airport's official website: www.baden-airpark.de.
• Information Desk Phone: For immediate information and enquiries, you can call: +49 7229 66-2000.
• Airport Address: The airport is located at: Halifax Avenue B 420, 77836 Rheinmünster, Germany.
• Email: For written enquiries, you can use the official e-mail: info@baden-airpark.de.
• Social Media: Follow airport news and updates on its official pages on social networks, such as Facebook.
• Lost Luggage Information: In case of lost luggage during a flight, first contact your airline's representative. If you have lost items within the terminal building, contact the airport's Lost and Found office (Fundbüro), the contacts for which are listed on the official website.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general questions related to your stay at the airport, you can contact the main phone number or email address listed above.

Getting to Karlsruhe/Baden-Baden Airport (FKB), also known as Baden-Airpark, is quite simple, despite its location between the cities of Karlsruhe and Baden-Baden. Travellers have access to several convenient transport options, allowing them to choose the best one in terms of cost and time.

Public Transport is the most economical method. There is no direct rail link to the airport, but there is an efficient "train + bus" connection. From Karlsruhe Central Station (Karlsruhe Hbf), you can take a train to Baden-Baden Station (Bahnhof Baden-Baden) or Rastatt. From Baden-Baden station, bus No. 285 (formerly No. 234) runs regularly to the airport, and from Rastatt, the express bus X34. The entire journey from the centre of Karlsruhe will take approximately 45-60 minutes. The cost is low, especially when using regional KVV transport network tickets.

Taxi and Private Transfer is the most comfortable and fastest option. A taxi ride from the centre of Karlsruhe to the airport will take about 30-40 minutes depending on traffic conditions. This is an ideal choice for those travelling with a large amount of luggage or for those who value their time. The cost of a taxi ride will be approximately 80-100 Euros. You can also book a transfer in advance, which is often slightly more cost-effective and allows you to avoid waiting for a car.

Car Rental is an excellent choice for those planning to travel around the Baden-Württemberg region. Offices of all major rental companies are present at FKB airport. Having a car gives you freedom of movement and the opportunity to explore picturesque surroundings, such as the Black Forest or neighbouring cities in Germany. The airport provides numerous parking lots, including short-term and long-term options. To get the best price for long-term parking, it is recommended to book a parking space online in advance.

For travellers looking for more flight options, it is worth considering other airports in the region. Major international hubs include Stuttgart Airport (STR) and EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg (EAP), located at a reasonable distance. Also nearby is Strasbourg Airport (SXB) in France, which can offer convenient flights to European destinations.

Karlsruhe/Baden-Baden Airport (FKB), also known as Baden-Airpark, is distinguished by its compactness and efficiency. The airport operates one passenger terminal, which serves both domestic and international flights, including those of budget airlines. Thanks to the thoughtful layout and small size, navigation is intuitive even for those visiting for the first time.

The structure of the terminal is very simple. On the Ground Floor, there are check-in counters, the arrivals area with baggage claim belts, car rental offices, and several cafes. After check-in, passengers proceed to the Upper Floor, where they go through security control. Immediately after this is the departure lounge with boarding gates, a Duty Free shop, and restaurants.

Since there is only one terminal, there is no need to transfer between buildings. All zones — from check-in to boarding — are within walking distance of each other. Check-in and security procedures generally proceed quite quickly due to the lower passenger traffic. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport in advance — approximately 1.5-2 hours before departure, to complete all formalities without haste.

For ease of navigation, clear signs in German and English are installed throughout the terminal. The airport's compactness is its main advantage: it is practically impossible to get lost here. All services are located logically, making a stay at Baden-Airpark comfortable and predictable.

The history of Baden-Airpark (FKB) is unique and closely linked to the events of the second half of the 20th century in Europe. Unlike many civilian airports, its roots lie in military aviation, which is still reflected in its structure and name today. Located near the city of Karlsruhe, it has undergone an impressive transformation.

The airfield was built in 1951-1952 for the needs of the French Air Force, but as early as 1953 it was handed over to the Royal Canadian Air Force. For nearly forty years, at the height of the Cold War, it was one of the largest Canadian military bases in Germany, known as CFB Baden-Soellingen. Fighter jets were based here, and the base played a strategically important role in NATO's defence system in Central Europe.

With the end of the Cold War and the withdrawal of Canadian troops in 1993, a new chapter began for the airfield. A decision was made to convert it into a civilian facility. In 1995, Baden-Airpark GmbH was founded, and already in May 1997, the first charter flight to Palma de Mallorca departed from here. This moment marked the official birth of the civilian airport.

A key stage of development was the modernisation of the infrastructure. In 2001, a new modern passenger terminal was opened, which significantly increased capacity. A real breakthrough was the attraction of budget airlines, particularly Ryanair, which turned Baden-Airpark into a popular transport hub for residents of the region. Today, it is the second-largest commercial airport in the federal state of Baden-Württemberg, successfully combining passenger and cargo transport with the activities of a large business park located on the former military facilities.

Baden-Airpark (FKB), despite its compact size, offers passengers a full range of services for a comfortable wait before their flight. In the terminal, you will find several options for dining and relaxation: from a bistro with hot meals to cosy cafes where you can enjoy coffee with fresh pastries. There is a Duty Free shop, as well as kiosks selling newspapers and souvenirs.

For those who value enhanced comfort, the airport features the Elite Lounge business lounge, offering a quiet atmosphere, snacks, and beverages. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and charging points for electronic devices are installed in the waiting areas. Financial services are represented by ATMs and a currency exchange office.

The airport is fully equipped for the needs of passengers with children and people with disabilities. There are mother and child rooms, and specialised assistance is provided for passengers with reduced mobility — from the car park to boarding the aircraft. It is recommended to book this service in advance through your airline.

If you need to stay overnight, there is a hotel located directly on the airport grounds. In addition, Baden-Airpark offers a service unique for a regional airport — modern and fully equipped conference rooms and business centres, making it a convenient venue for business meetings.

Baden-Airpark (FKB), despite its compact size, offers passengers several convenient options for a snack or a full meal. The main dining outlets are concentrated in the public area of the terminal, before security control, allowing both departing passengers and those seeing them off to spend time comfortably.

In the public area (landside), there is a main bistro restaurant where you can have a leisurely lunch. The menu usually includes dishes of European and traditional German cuisine. Here you can order hot dishes, soups, salads, and also try local specialities, such as schnitzel or various types of sausages. Nearby, there is often a bakery or coffee shop offering fresh pastries, sandwiches, coffee, and desserts — an ideal option for a quick and light snack. Prices here can be described as moderate for an airport.

After passing through security control, in the departure area (airside), the choice is more limited. Typically, a small bar or cafe operates here. This place is excellent for having a cup of coffee or a refreshing beverage right before boarding the flight. The assortment of snacks usually consists of sandwiches, crisps, and sweets. The opening hours of establishments in the departure area are strictly tied to the flight schedule; they open shortly before the first departures and close after the last aircraft has departed.

Regarding special dietary needs, vegetarians will be able to find salads, vegetable side dishes, or pastries on the menu. However, for travellers adhering to a vegan, gluten-free, or Halal diet, the choice may be extremely limited. It is recommended to check the ingredients of dishes with the staff or bring necessary snacks with you. Thus, the restaurant in the public area is best suited for a full lunch, while the cafe after passport control is best for a quick snack before departure.

To ensure your journey through Baden-Airpark (FKB), serving the city of Karlsruhe and the surrounding area, is as comfortable as possible, use these tips. This airport is smaller than the major hubs in Germany, which makes it more convenient, but preparation is still important.

Arrival Time and Check-in. It is recommended to arrive at the airport 2-2.5 hours before the departure of international flights and 1.5-2 hours before flights within the Schengen zone. To save time, complete online check-in on your airline's website and save the boarding pass on your phone. This will allow you to proceed immediately to baggage drop (if you have any) or to security control.

Passing Control and Seat Selection. Security at Baden-Airpark works efficiently, but queues are possible during peak hours. Prepare liquids in advance (in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag) and electronics. When choosing a seat on the plane, note that picturesque views of the Black Forest region often open up on the left side during take-off and on the right side during landing.

Hand Luggage. Strictly adhere to your airline's hand luggage rules, especially if flying with a low-cost carrier. In addition to restrictions on liquids, sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances are prohibited. Ensure that the dimensions and weight of your bag comply with the standards to avoid extra charges.

Connecting Passengers and Customs. Baden-Airpark is not a major transit hub, so transfers here are rare. If you do have a connecting flight, check with the airline whether you need to collect and re-check your luggage. For flights within the Schengen zone, customs control is usually absent. If you are arriving from a country outside the EU, follow the "Red" or "Green" channel signs depending on whether you have goods to declare.

Saving Time and Money. Book parking online in advance — it is often cheaper. Bring an empty reusable water bottle with you to fill it after passing security screening. Prices for food and drinks at the airport can be high, so a light snack brought from home (not liquid) will help save money.

In Case of Flight Delay. If your flight is delayed, contact the airline counter for information. Depending on the length of the delay, under EU regulations, you may be provided with vouchers for food or even hotel accommodation. There are several cafes and shops in the airport where you can pass the time while waiting for departure.