Basel Mulhouse Freiburg Airport will be able to reopen its main runway 15/33 for regular air traffic much earlier than planned after an intensive renovation phase.
Thanks to rapid construction progress and favorable weather conditions during the total closure, the airport will reopen on Saturday, May 16, 2026. Originally, the closure was planned to last until May 21. Following successful technical inspections and safety checks, airlines can now return to standard approach and departure procedures five days earlier than expected.
The extensive construction work included not only the renewal of the runway surface but also renovation work on Taxiway Bravo. To withstand the extreme stresses caused by departing and landing aircraft in the long term, concrete was specifically chosen for the main runway surface. This material is characterized by its high resistance to pressure and temperature fluctuations, which should ensure the reliability of the infrastructure for decades to come. Despite the earlier opening, the airlines' previously published flight schedules remain unchanged, as they had been adjusted as a precaution for the duration of the work.
In parallel with the runway work, airport management used the period of low activity for comprehensive modernization of the terminal building. Passengers can expect an upgraded arrivals area and renovated parking garages near the terminal after the reopening. Of particular note is the modernization of Hall 3, which has been completely equipped with new self-service bag drop systems. These systems allow travelers to check in their own luggage and are intended to speed up the check-in process. While the lounge and the jet bridge have already been renovated, Hall 3 will remain closed until the end of May for final preparations before being gradually reopened.
Until the start of the summer travel season in June, some finishing touches will still be carried out in the terminal. EuroAirport emphasizes that carrying out the runway renovation in a concentrated phase under a complete closure is the most efficient method to minimize disruption for residents and partners. With the completion of the major infrastructure measures, the trinational airport is prepared for the expected high passenger volume this summer. The investments in the concrete runway and the digital handling systems represent a strategic strengthening of the location in the competition among regional airports.