Capturing the Skies: An Insider’s Look at Frankfurt Airport’s Aviation Photography

DALLAS — Frankfurt Airport (FRA) is the largest international airport in Germany. It draws numerous commercial and cargo operations globally and primarily serves as a hub for Lufthansa (LH).

Countless aircraft and an array of airlines pass through daily to various locales, establishing a haven for aviation photographers. This article discusses the primary photography spots and the airlines servicing Frankfurt.

Airlines

Lufthansa (LH) stands out as the leading airline in Frankfurt, accounting for the majority of operations at its hub. The German carrier manages a fleet at FRA, which includes the Airbus A320 family, A330, A340, Boeing 787 Dreamliner, 777F, and CRJ. The A350 and A380 are seldom in operation here as they have relocated to Munich Airport (MUC).

Several airlines belonging to the Lufthansa Group also service FRA, including subsidiaries such as Eurowings (EW), Discover (4Y), Swiss (LX), Austrian (OS), Brussels (SN), Air Dolomiti (EN), and the recently acquired ITA Airways (AZ).

Germany’s charter airline, Condor (DE), operates numerous flights with their iconic A330neo long-haul, A320 family, and B757 aircraft. These planes generally fly to holiday (often sunnier) destinations worldwide.

Frankfurt’s Terminal 1 is home to the carriers listed above along with other Star Alliance partners. All remaining airlines, including OneWorld carriers such as Japan Airlines (JL) and British Airways (BA), operate from Terminal 2.

Less familiar airlines to Europe also operate at Germany’s largest airport, such as Mongolian Airlines (OM) and Turkmenistan Airlines (T5). These unique options enhance Frankfurt Airport’s appeal for those who keep track of aircraft registrations.

In addition to commercial airlines, Frankfurt Airport ranks as Europe’s busiest cargo hub, managing over 2.1 million tonnes of cargo movements in 2024, according to Fraport traffic statistics.

The Lufthansa Cargo fleet consists of 16 Boeing 777F and 4 Airbus A321F aircraft, facilitating significant cargo transport across the globe. The airport also receives several Boeing B747F cargo planes from airlines like Cathay Pacific Cargo (CX) and Asiana Cargo (OZ).

Frankfurt Airport features four runways, providing ample locations for photography, which includes three designated viewing points and a visitor’s terrace in Terminal 2.

Runway 07L/25R is utilized for arrivals, 07C/25C is for both arrivals and departures, 07R/25L is designated solely for arrivals, and 18 is primarily for departures.

1. Zeppelinheim Viewing Platform

The first official viewing platform at Frankfurt Airport overlooks runways 07R/25L and 07C/25C. As the wind typically comes from the east, aircraft descend to land on 25L (sometimes 25C), allowing for capturing images of their final approach until they touch down.

Most large aircraft land on this runway, including A380s and Boeing 747s, making it the prime location for spotting such planes. It is also possible to photograph 25C departures as aircraft line up.

During reverse operations, planes take off from 07C, and this site is suitable only for capturing departures. Moreover, this viewpoint overlooks two taxiways where aircraft are towed or taxiing.

Reaching this spot is easy: It is roughly a 30-minute walk from Terminal 2. If opting for public transport, take the S-bahn from the airport station to Zeppelinheim station and then walk through the woods to the viewing platform. For those traveling by car, ample parking is available in the woods near the station entrance.

This site is ideal throughout the day during spring, autumn, and winter when the sun remains behind the aircraft. In the summer months, the sun is behind the planes during sunrise and sunset, but the remainder of the day is fantastic.

2: North-west Runway Viewing Platform

The second official viewing platform focuses solely on landings in both directions (07R/25L), where all heavy aircraft except A380s and B747s arrive. Given that the platform is elevated above the perimeter fence, excellent photos can be taken, including touchdowns and runway turn-offs.

The proximity of this location to the taxiway allows for pilots to wave at photographers if they happen to notice us capturing their flights!

This spot is situated further from the terminal, so utilizing the bus is advisable. From the bus stop outside Terminal 1, board bus numbers 751, 67, or X15 towards Tor (gate) 26 and continue walking another 1.5km along the airport perimeter. After crossing the autobahn, you will encounter a fire station; simply follow the path to the viewing platform.

As previously mentioned, this site is excellent throughout the day during spring, autumn, and winter when the sun is positioned behind the aircraft. In the summertime, the sun is behind the planes at sunrise and sunset, while the rest of the day remains favorable.

3: Runway 18 Lineups

As indicated by its title, this spot provides a perspective of runway 18 lineups. Aircraft taking off from 25C can also be captured here.

Positioned on the mound, this area provides a view of the primary de-icing zone, which is great for photography in chilly conditions. While peering through the fence, planes may sometimes utilize this taxiway after leaving 07L/25R. Always maintain your focus on the aircraft as they navigate over the roadway!

This viewpoint is ideal starting from 1 pm throughout the year. Prior to this, the light will not aid your photography as it will be against the aircraft.

4: West Runway Viewing Platform

This designated viewing platform delivers breathtaking views of the airfield. The best photography opportunities arise during landings at 07R, takeoffs from 18, and departures from 25C. Note that aircraft do not take off or land on runway 36!

Reaching this site requires a bus, which is the same route that goes to points 2 and 3 from the bus stop outside Terminal 1. Board the 751 to Tor (gate) 31 and walk back under the runway until you discover the steps leading to the platform.

For takeoffs from 18, as stated previously, this site is best from 1 pm onwards year-round. Before this time, the lighting will hinder your aircraft photography. Landings at 07R are viable throughout the entire year.

5: Visitor’s Terrace at Terminal 2

The concluding site in our guide is the visitor’s terrace located prior to security checks in Terminal 2. You can observe aircraft departing from runway 25C and landing on 25L, along with activities from the gates directly below.

A majority of the terrace is secured by a metal fence; however, there are several holes for photography that allow your lenses to capture an unobstructed view.

Since this area faces the sun, it is not advisable for photography unless the sky is overcast (as depicted in the images below). It often remains closed during the winter period. For details regarding operating hours, you can check here.

Airport Tours

Frankfurt Airport organizes tours that provide exceptional views of the apron and the entire airport. The tours vary from 45 minutes to 2 hours, conducted via bus with an experienced guide. It is advisable to reserve your spot ahead of time here.

This article is crafted to assist both novice and seasoned photographers looking to optimize their aviation photography experience at Frankfurt Airport! With countless movements from global airlines, you will surely find your photography endeavors here rewarding.

You can find further details regarding the viewing points on Frankfurt Airport’s official site. Enjoy your spotting!

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