Nuremberg Airport (Albrecht Dürer Airport) is preparing for a massive increase in air traffic during the Bavarian Christmas holidays. From December 19, 2025, to January 6, 2026, the airport company forecasts approximately 162.800 passengers. This represents an 18 percent increase compared to the same period last year, when around 137.800 passengers were handled. A total of 1.233 flight movements are scheduled, with December 20 expected to be the busiest day, with 12.000 passengers anticipated.
Passenger travel patterns show a strong focus on warm-water destinations and European metropolises. Egypt's Hurghada tops the list of most popular destinations with over 14.300 passengers. It is followed by the international hubs of Frankfurt and Amsterdam, which connect travelers to the global route network. London Stansted and the two airports in Istanbul are also recording high booking numbers. Among classic holiday destinations, Palma de Mallorca and Antalya occupy the top spots. According to airport managing director Dr. Michael Hupe, this increase reflects the high mobility needs of people in the Franconia region.
To maintain smooth operations during peak periods, airport management recommends that all passengers arrive at least two hours before departure. This is intended to prevent bottlenecks at check-in counters and security checkpoints. In addition to flight operations, retail and food service capacities, such as those in the newly designed sales area of the Nuremberg Area, have been increased. Parking capacities at the airport have also been optimized in advance to meet the increased demand from holidaymakers. Besides tourist traffic, visits to family and friends traditionally play a significant role in aircraft utilization during this period.