Luxembourg Findel International Airport (LUX/ELLX) – The Grand Duchy’s Premier Gateway
Luxembourg Findel International Airport (LUX) is the sole international air hub serving the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg. Operated by Lux-Airport, it is celebrated for its strategic location and efficient service, successfully combining the high capacity of a major European hub with the streamlined comfort and efficiency of a regional airport.
The Grand Duchy’s Air Hub: Overview and Key Statistics
LUX is a critical transportation and economic engine for the surrounding Greater Region, which includes areas of Belgium, France, and Germany. Its central location makes it a highly convenient entry point to Central Europe.
Strategic Importance and Recent Performance:
- Location: The airport is strategically situated in Findel, just 6 km (4 mi) east of the Luxembourg City centre, offering rapid access via the country’s unique free public transport network.
- Record Passenger Growth: The airport continues to set new milestones, handling a record 5,147,854 passengers in 2024. This consistent growth reinforces its status as a vital international gateway.
- Top Destinations: The route to Porto, Portugal, remains the most popular destination, highlighting strong leisure and business connections to Southern Europe.
- Europe’s Leading Cargo Hub: LUX is a global leader in air freight, serving as the home base for the world-renowned full freighter airline Cargolux and the national flag carrier Luxair. It maintained its position as a major European air cargo player, processing 905,222 tons of cargo in 2024.
- Economic Impact: A 2024 study emphasized the airport’s massive contribution, generating an estimated total economic impact of €9.2 billion in GDP and supporting over 90,000 jobs across the Greater Region.
Modern Terminals and Enhanced Passenger Services
Luxembourg Airport features two interconnected, modern passenger terminals designed for maximum efficiency and a smooth travel experience.
- Terminal A: The main terminal, opened in 2008, handles the majority of passenger operations for major international airlines.
- Terminal B: Primarily dedicated to smaller, regional jet traffic, accommodating aircraft with a maximum capacity of 110 passengers. The 2017 renovation enhanced its capacity for crucial regional connectivity.
Premium Amenities for Travelers:
- Connectivity: Passengers benefit from Free Unlimited Wi-Fi available across the entire terminal area under the network name “lux-Airport Free Wi-Fi”.
- Relaxation: The premium Primeclass Lounge is available for a fee (approximately 35 EUR), providing comfortable seating, refreshments, and dedicated business facilities.
- Retail and Dining: A refreshed selection of duty-free outlets, boutique shops, and diverse restaurants and cafes are available, including popular dining options with excellent panoramic views of the runway.
- Essential Services: Comprehensive facilities include accessible support for disabled passengers, multi-currency ATMs/bank services, major car rental desks (Avis, Hertz, Sixt), baby changing rooms, a VIP area, and a designated pet relief area.
- Lost Property: For inquiries regarding lost items within the airport premises, passengers should contact the dedicated service desk at +352 2440 8900.
- Currency: All transactions and services within the airport are conducted in Euro (EUR).
Seamless and Free Ground Transportation
Luxembourg offers the pioneering benefit of free nationwide public transport, ensuring cost-effective and easy connections from the airport to any point in the country.
- T1 Tram Line: The state-of-the-art T1 tram line provides the fastest and most efficient route, directly connecting the airport (Findel) to the heart of the business district (Kirchberg) and the main Gare Centrale (Central Train Station) in Luxembourg City.
- City Bus Connections (Free): Multiple free city bus lines link the airport to key urban areas:
- Lines 6, 16, and 29: Provide direct and frequent services to the City Center and Gare Centrale, with a typical journey time of around 30 minutes.
- International Bus Services: Bus line 302 facilitates convenient cross-border travel, connecting the airport directly to the historic city of Trier, Germany, in approximately 45 minutes.
- Travel Planning: Comprehensive timetables and route information for all public transport options are available through the official Mobiliteit.lu service.
Major Airlines and Key Destinations
Luxembourg Airport serves as a vital hub for both the national flag carrier and international airlines, connecting the Grand Duchy to major European and global cities.
- Home Carrier: Luxair (Luxembourg’s flag carrier) operates an extensive network of passenger routes, covering popular leisure and key European business destinations.
- International Operators: A wide array of international airlines, including legacy carriers like Lufthansa, British Airways, and KLM, alongside low-cost options like Ryanair, easyJet, and Wizz Air, operate services from LUX.
- Popular Routes: Highly frequented destinations include key European business centers such as Frankfurt, London, and Munich, alongside popular Mediterranean and coastal holiday spots.
Convenient Airport Hotels
Several high-quality hotels are located within close proximity to the airport terminal, offering maximum convenience and easy access for arriving or departing travelers:
- Mövenpick Hotel Luxembourg: A comfortable, full-service option.
- ibis Budget Luxembourg Aéroport: Provides essential, cost-effective accommodation.
- Moxy Luxembourg Airport Hotel: A modern, trendy choice designed for a quick and convenient stay.