How about a journey through time right here at Cologne Bonn Airport? This isn’t just an airport. It’s a place where history took flight and continues to soar.
Cologne Bonn Airport serves both Cologne and Bonn. It stands as Germany’s seventh-largest passenger airport. Impressively, it ranks third for cargo operations. In 2017, about 12.4 million passengers passed through here.
Let’s step back to 1938. The first airfield emerged. It was built for the German Luftwaffe. After World War II, the British military expanded it. They named it RAF Wahn. A runway measuring 1,866 meters was constructed.
In 1950, a new chapter began. Cologne Bonn Airport opened for civilian air traffic. It was meant to serve Cologne and Bonn. It replaced Cologne Butzweilerhof Airport. Imagine the excitement. The first scheduled international route was London to Cologne/Bonn to Berlin. BEA operated it, starting January 1, 1951.
Fast forward to 1961. A third runway opened. Lufthansa launched its first intercontinental service. It connected Cologne/Bonn to New York City. The airport buzzed with activity.
The year 1970 marked another milestone. The new passenger terminal opened. It still stands today as Terminal 1. Throughout the 70s, passenger and freight facilities grew. By 1978, over 2 million passengers passed through Cologne Bonn Airport.
1986 was a game-changer. United Parcel Service chose Cologne Bonn Airport. It became their European hub. TNT Express followed suit in 1988. The airport transformed into a global logistics center.
By 1990, the airport served three million passengers annually. The mid-90s ushered in a significant expansion. New parking lots, a control tower, and a second terminal emerged. In 2004, a long-distance railway station opened. It connected the airport to InterCityExpress trains.
The early 2000s brought low-cost airlines to Germany. Cologne/Bonn seized the opportunity. Germanwings and TUIfly established hubs here in 2002. Passenger numbers surged by 43% in 2003. EasyJet and Wizz Air joined later.
Cologne Bonn Airport also played a role in international missions. The Canadian Forces used it as a staging area. They moved troops and supplies for humanitarian and anti-terrorism efforts.
Today, Cologne Bonn Airport boasts impressive facilities. There are two passenger terminals. Terminal 1 has a U-shaped design. It features star-shaped piers. Terminal 2 is a modern building of glass and steel.
Did you know Cologne Bonn Airport has three runways? The intercontinental runway stretches 3,815 meters. The parallel runway is 1,863 meters. The crosswind runway spans 2,459 meters. This setup allows for 24-hour operation.
The airport’s economic impact is substantial. Around 15,000 people work here. They represent 130 companies and authorities.
Cologne Bonn Airport continues to evolve. It connects people and businesses. It supports the region’s growth. As you journey through this airport, remember its rich history. Consider its vital role in today’s interconnected world. It is more than just runways and terminals. It’s a gateway to the world.