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Leipzig/Halle Airport

About the Airport

Leipzig/Halle Airport. Source: Kupi.com Binoculars

Leipzig/Halle Airport (LEJ) is not merely a transport hub, but a true architectural marvel situated at the junction of two dynamic cities in Saxony. Travellers are welcomed by a futuristic terminal renowned for its unique engineering solution: aircraft taxi across special bridges directly over a busy motorway and railway line. This airport combines German functionality with comfort, offering passengers rapid connections and excellent transport accessibility in the very heart of Central Germany.

IATA Code LEJ
ICAO Code EDDP
City Leipzig
Distance to Centre ~18 km
Status International
Annual Passengers Over 1.5 million
Schedule On official website

Airport Features and Advantages:

Unique Architecture and Plane Spotting. The airport's hallmark feature is its taxiways, which pass over bridges above the A14 motorway. This spectacle attracts not only passengers but aviation enthusiasts from around the world. An excellent observation deck (Aussichtsterrasse) is equipped for them, offering panoramic views of the runways and the apron.

Ideal Transport Integration. The airport boasts its own railway station located directly beneath the central terminal. Passengers can transfer from their flight to high-speed trains (ICE) or the suburban train (S-Bahn), which takes you to the centre of Leipzig or Halle in just 15–20 minutes.

Comfort and No Queues. Thanks to a thoughtful layout and modern equipment, completing pre-flight formalities here takes minimal time. The terminal is spacious and bright, with ample rest zones, shops, and cafés, making the wait for your flight calm and pleasant.

Contact Information

If you need to contact representatives of Leipzig/Halle Airport (LEJ), please use the following contact information. It is recommended to verify the data on the official website, especially before your trip.

  • Official Website: www.leipzig-halle-airport.de
  • Information Desk Phone: +49 341 224 1155 (24 hours)
  • Airport Address: Terminalring 11, 04435 Schkeuditz, Germany
  • Email for General Enquiries: information@leipzig-halle-airport.de
  • Social Media: The airport maintains active pages on popular social networks where you can follow news and updates.
  • Lost & Found Information: If you have lost items within the terminal, please contact the Lost & Found office at +49 341 224 1655. For luggage lost during a flight, you should contact your airline first.
  • Passenger Support Contacts: For consultations and assistance, you may use the main airport information desk phone number.

How to Get to the Airport

Getting to Leipzig/Halle Airport (LEJ) is quite simple thanks to its convenient location and developed transport infrastructure. Whether you are travelling from the centre of Leipzig, neighbouring Halle, or another city in Germany, you have several convenient options to choose from.

The fastest and most popular way to reach the airport is by public transport, specifically the S-Bahn suburban train. Lines S5 and S5X run frequently and connect the airport directly to the main stations of Leipzig (Leipzig Hauptbahnhof) and Halle (Halle (Saale) Hauptbahnhof). The journey from Leipzig Central Station takes only about 15 minutes, and from Halle approximately 12 minutes. The railway station is located directly beneath the terminal, making this option incredibly convenient. Tickets can be purchased at machines at the stations or online. The airport is also served by intercity buses linking it to dozens of other cities.

If you prefer comfort and are travelling with large luggage or family, a taxi or pre-booked transfer is a good choice. A taxi ride from the centre of Leipzig to the airport will take approximately 25-30 minutes depending on traffic, and the cost will be around 45-55 Euros. Booking a private transfer can ensure a fixed price and save you from unnecessary hassle upon arrival.

For those planning to travel around the region by car, representatives of all major car rental companies operate at the airport. Leipzig/Halle Airport has direct access to the A9 (Berlin – Munich) and A14 (Dresden – Magdeburg) motorways, making it easy to reach by private or rented vehicle. Several parking zones are located near the terminal, including a multi-storey car park and more budget-friendly open-air lots. To get the best price, especially for long-term parking, it is recommended to book a space online in advance.

Terminals and Map

Leipzig/Halle Airport (LEJ) is distinguished by a modern and thoughtful structure that makes navigation intuitive for passengers. In fact, the airport consists of one central terminal, Terminal B, which serves both departing and arriving passengers. This layout eliminates the need to move between different buildings, significantly saving time and effort.

The terminal building has a logical division into levels. The departure zone with numerous check-in counters and baggage drop-off points is located on the upper level. After check-in, passengers proceed to the security control zone, beyond which the boarding gates are located. The arrival zone is situated on the lower level. Here you will find baggage reclaim belts and customs control. Thanks to the compact layout, the path from the aircraft to the terminal exit or the railway station takes minimal time.

One of the main features of the airport is its complete integration with the Flughafen Leipzig/Halle railway station, which is located directly beneath the terminal. Escalators and lifts lead from the arrival and departure halls directly to the train platforms, providing convenient transfers to regional and intercity routes throughout Germany. This makes the airport a vital transport hub for the region.

Formalities generally take little time. On average, check-in and security screening take about 30-45 minutes, but during peak hours or the tourist season, this time may increase. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before departure. Navigation through the terminal is very simple thanks to clear signage in German and English, so it is practically impossible to get lost here.

Airport History

The history of Leipzig/Halle Airport (LEJ) is a vivid example of how an aviation hub can adapt to changing times and eras. Its story began in 1927, when it opened as a mixed civil and experimental airfield. Strategically located between the cities of Leipzig and Halle, it quickly became an important part of Germany's aviation network. Even in its early years, the airport handled a significant number of flights and passengers, confirming its demand.

During the existence of the GDR (East Germany), Leipzig/Halle Airport held a special status. It was a central hub for the national airline Interflug and one of the few airports in the country that received flights from Western carriers, mainly to serve visitors to the famous Leipzig Trade Fair. In 1972, a new runway 3,600 metres long was put into operation, allowing it to accommodate long-haul aircraft such as the IL-62, which flew routes as far as Cuba and Vietnam.

After the reunification of Germany in 1990, a new era of large-scale development began for the airport. Huge investments were made in its modernization. A key event was the opening of the new Central Terminal (Zentralterminal) in 2003, which architecturally united passenger areas and the railway station under one roof. This allowed the airport to be integrated into the InterCity-Express (ICE) high-speed train and S-Bahn suburban train network, significantly improving its transport accessibility.

Perhaps the most significant achievement in the modern history of the airport was its transformation into one of Europe's largest cargo hubs. In 2008, DHL Express opened its European sorting and logistics centre here. This decision radically changed the airport's profile, making it the fifth busiest cargo airport in Europe. A key success factor was the ability to operate 24 hours a day, which is a rarity for major German airports and ensures high-speed cargo delivery worldwide.

Services and Amenities

Leipzig/Halle Airport (LEJ) offers passengers a comprehensive range of services for a comfortable journey. The terminal building houses various cafés and restaurants where you can grab a quick coffee or enjoy a full dinner. For those wishing to shop, there are stores including a classic Duty Free with a wide assortment of goods, as well as souvenir shops and newsstands.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, allowing you to stay connected or work while waiting for your flight. Numerous power outlets and USB stations are provided for charging electronic devices. Passengers who value enhanced comfort can utilize the VIP lounges, offering a private atmosphere, snacks, beverages, and fresh press.

Financial matters are easily resolved at the airport: ATMs and currency exchange points are at your service. In case of feeling unwell, there is a pharmacy and a medical centre in the terminal where qualified assistance can be obtained.

Families with children will appreciate the specially equipped baby care rooms with changing tables and play areas where young travellers can have a fun time. For passengers with reduced mobility, a barrier-free environment has been created, and an assistance service is provided, which is recommended to be booked in advance through the airline.

If you need to rest between flights or have an early morning departure, several hotels are located in the immediate vicinity of the airport. For business travellers, a modern conference centre operates within the airport complex, featuring halls of various capacities and all necessary equipment for meetings, seminars, and presentations.

Where to Eat

Leipzig/Halle Airport (LEJ) offers passengers diverse opportunities for a snack or a full meal to comfortably pass the time while waiting for a flight. Whether you are looking for a cup of aromatic coffee, a hearty lunch, or a light snack, you will find a suitable establishment here.

Most cafés and restaurants are concentrated in the Central Terminal (Terminal B), in the public area (landside), which is convenient for those seeing off or meeting passengers. Here you can find both quick-service outlets and restaurants with a more relaxed atmosphere. After passing security control (airside) in the departure zone, there are also several cafés where you can have a snack directly before boarding.

For a quick bite, coffee shops and bakeries offering fresh pastries, sandwiches, and desserts are perfect. If you have more time, consider self-service restaurants such as Marché Mövenpick, where a wide selection of dishes is presented: from salads and soups to hot meat and fish dishes. This is a good opportunity to try something from the local Saxon cuisine — for example, a hearty potato soup or traditional beverages from Germany.

Many establishments offer options for passengers with specific dietary preferences, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free dishes — it is worth checking their availability with the staff. The price range varies from budget options in fast-food outlets to mid-level prices in restaurants. The opening hours of most cafés and restaurants are adapted to the flight schedule, starting from early morning until late evening. Nevertheless, it is recommended to check current information on the official airport website before your trip.

Tips for Travellers

Planning a trip through Leipzig/Halle Airport will proceed smoothly if you consider a few tips. This modern and convenient transport hub in Germany offers passengers everything they need, and our recommendations will help you save time and avoid stress.

Arrival time at the airport. Although Leipzig/Halle Airport is known for its efficiency, it is recommended to arrive in advance. For international flights, allow 2.5-3 hours before departure, and for flights within the Schengen zone — 1.5-2 hours. This time will be sufficient to calmly complete all procedures, even during peak hours.

Check-in and security control. To save time, use online check-in, which is offered by most airlines. This allows you to go straight to the baggage drop-off counter or, if you are travelling light, directly to security screening. At security control, be ready to present your boarding pass, and remove liquids in a transparent bag, laptops, and other large electronics into a tray in advance.

Choosing a seat on the plane. If you have the opportunity to select a seat during check-in, consider your preferences. Window seats (A, F) offer beautiful views during take-off and landing, while aisle seats (C, D) provide more legroom and the ability to stand up freely without disturbing neighbours.

Hand luggage. Remember the general rules: liquids can be carried in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a single transparent bag with a volume of up to 1 litre. Sharp objects, flammable substances, and weapons are prohibited. Power banks and spare lithium-ion batteries should be carried only in hand luggage.

Transfer passengers. Leipzig/Halle is a convenient airport for transit. Upon arrival, follow the signs for "Transit" or "Connecting Flights". Ensure you know the number of your next gate — information is displayed on numerous screens. If your connection is within the Schengen zone, you will not need to pass passport control again.

Customs control. When arriving from countries outside the EU, you will have to pass customs control. If you have no goods to declare, proceed through the "Green Channel". If you are carrying items subject to declaration (for example, goods worth over 430 Euros), you must pass through the "Red Channel". There is no systematic customs control on flights within the EU.

Saving time and money. To get to the city or the airport, use the high-speed S-Bahn train — it is the fastest and most budget-friendly way. The station is located right in the terminal building. You can also save money by bringing an empty water bottle and filling it at drinking fountains after passing security control.

In case of flight delay. If your flight is delayed, first contact your airline representative for information and possible food vouchers (depending on the length of the delay). The airport has free Wi-Fi, and many cafés and shops to pass the waiting time. Remember your rights under EU Regulation No 261/2004, which provides for compensation and assistance to passengers in the event of long delays or flight cancellations.

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