Munich Airport Overview

Munich Airport (IATA: MUC, ICAO: EDDM), officially named Franz Josef Strauß Airport, is Germany’s second-busiest airport and a central European aviation hub. Located northeast of Munich in Freising, it serves as a primary base for Lufthansa and a key gateway connecting Europe with Asia, the Middle East, and North America. Renowned for its efficient infrastructure, passenger amenities, and award-winning services, Munich Airport is also a major centre for air cargo and general aviation.

General Information

  • Location: Freising, Bavaria, near Munich
  • Country: Germany
  • IATA Code: MUC
  • ICAO Code: EDDM
  • Elevation: 1,487 feet (453 metres)
  • Coordinates: 48°21′14″N 011°47′10″E
  • Airport Type: Public, International
  • Flights: Scheduled domestic and international services
  • Timezone: UTC+1 (CET) / UTC+2 (CEST in summer)
  • Distance from City: Approx. 28 km northeast of central Munich
  • Website: www.munich-airport.com
  • Ground Services: Full passenger, cargo, and VIP handling
  • Operator: Flughafen München GmbH (FMG)

Airport Details

  • Runways: 2
  • Runway Designations and Lengths:
    • 08L/26R: 4,000 m (13,123 ft) – Concrete
    • 08R/26L: 4,000 m (13,123 ft) – Concrete
  • Runway Surfaces: Concrete
  • Runway Strengths: Supports all aircraft types, including A380 (Code F)
  • Fire Services: ICAO Category 10
  • Tower Frequency: Available
  • Ground Frequency: Available
  • Navigation Assistance: ILS CAT III, VOR/DME, GPS, RNAV, NDB
  • Customs: Available 24/7
  • Aircraft Types: All aircraft up to Code F
  • Terminals: Two passenger terminals (T1 and T2), plus a satellite terminal and VIP wing
  • Cargo: Dedicated cargo terminal with temperature-controlled and bonded facilities
  • Fuel: JET A-1 available via hydrant and trucks
  • FBOs: Signature Flight Support, Munich Executive Aviation, Aero-Dienst
  • Equipment: Full GSE, maintenance, de-icing, and crew facilities
  • Ground Services: Complete support for commercial and general aviation

Flight Information

  • Permit Time: EU-based aircraft require minimal notice; non-EU flights 24–72 hours
  • Permission Required: Yes, for charter and non-EU ops
  • Slots: Required (Level 3 coordinated airport)
  • Backup Airports:
    • NUE: Nuremberg Airport
    • SZG: Salzburg Airport
    • Recommended: For GA, consider alternate regional airports when slots are constrained

Contact Information

Visitor Information

  • Immigration Rules: Schengen entry rules apply; a valid passport and visa as per nationality
  • Crew Requirements: Passport, crew ID/license; Schengen visa if not exempt
  • Transport: S-Bahn (S1 and S8) direct to Munich city centre, rental cars, taxis, and hotel shuttles
  • Accommodation:
    • Onsite: Hilton Munich Airport (between Terminals 1 and 2)
    • Nearby: Novotel, NH München Airport, Mövenpick, and other hotels in Freising
  • Currency: Euro (EUR); major international cards accepted

Nearby Attractions

Marienplatz

The historic heart of Munich, featuring the New Town Hall (Neues Rathaus) and Glockenspiel show.

Englischer Garten

One of the largest urban parks in the world, perfect for biking, picnics, and river surfing.

BMW Welt & Museum

An interactive experience showcasing BMW’s innovation, motorsports history, and iconic vehicles.

Neuschwanstein Castle (day trip)

Germany’s most famous fairytale castle is approximately 2 hours from Munich by car or train.

Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site

A sobering historical site outside Munich offers guided tours and exhibits.

Extra Tips

  • Getting Around: S-Bahn connects directly to the city centre in ~40 minutes
  • Travel: Book slots and ground handling well in advance, especially during Oktoberfest and trade fairs
  • Best Times to Visit:
    • Spring (Apr–Jun): Pleasant weather, festivals begin
    • Fall (Sep–Oct): Oktoberfest and fall foliage
  • Tips:
    • Munich is a Schengen entry point—allow time for immigration
    • GA/VIP aircraft must coordinate noise abatement procedures during night curfew (2200–0600 LT)
    • For smoother turnaround, liaise directly with your selected FBO
    • Enjoy shopping and dining at the Munich Airport Centre and the airport brewery, Airbräu

Munich Airport offers premium efficiency, German precision, and excellent connectivity. Connect with your preferred ground handler or visit the official airport portal for real-time coordination, slot management, or luxury travel arrangements.