The steady rise in passenger numbers – doubling over the past ten years – clearly demonstrates the need for greater capacity.
While detailed plans are still in development, some renovation works are already underway, and additional space for passenger services will gradually be added, stated Backes in her answer to the parliamentary question. No precise budget figures are available yet, but the planning process is actively ongoing.
The government also supports the development of long-haul routes from Findel. Ultimately, however, it is up to airlines to determine whether such routes are economically viable, according to Backes. Luxembourg’s airport infrastructure is already capable of handling long-distance flights, as evidenced by the existing weekly service to Zhengzhou, China, she states.
Backes clarified that Findel remains a “Level 2" facilitated airport, allowing for flexibility in scheduling outside the nightly curfew. Moving to a more regulated “Level 3” system could ease congestion at peak times but would also reduce flexibility for airlines. For now, the government is sticking to its current consensus-based policy.
In terms of night flights, efforts are being made to reduce exemptions during curfew hours without harming the airport’s economic activity. A charter to limit night operations has already been signed with Cargolux, and a similar agreement with Luxair is in progress. Discussions are also ongoing with airlines to improve flight distribution across the day, helping to relieve pressure during busy periods.
While general aviation continues to have a place at Findel, the steady growth of commercial operations means long-term structural considerations will be necessary to manage waiting times for sport and leisure pilots.
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