Frankfurt Airport is one of Europe's largest, and getting through it with children takes a little strategy. The good news: it is well equipped for families, and the new Terminal 3, in operation since 23 April 2026, is modern and spacious. Terminal 2 closed to passengers on 9 June 2026 and its airlines have moved to Terminal 3, so you will be using Terminal 1 or Terminal 3. Here is how to make the journey through FRA as smooth as possible in 2026.
Security and Family Lanes
Allow extra time — security with children always takes longer. CT scanners at every Terminal 3 checkpoint and most Terminal 1 checkpoints let liquids of up to 2 litres and electronics stay in your bag — a real help when your hands are full. The old 100 ml rule still applies at gates C1, C2, C4 and C6 and some other Terminal 1 checkpoints. You can also book a free security time slot in advance with FRA SmartWay. Ask staff about family or priority lanes at busy times.
Strollers and Getting Around
You can use your own stroller right up to the gate, where it is tagged and stowed. The terminals are large, so a stroller is genuinely useful even for older toddlers. Remember Terminal 3 is at the far end of the airport — the SkyLine train links it to Terminal 1, running every 2–3 minutes from 4am to 11pm.
Facilities for Families
- Play areas and family zones in the terminals to burn off energy before boarding.
- Baby-care rooms for feeding and changing.
- Plenty of food options — useful for fussy eaters and odd hours.
Connecting Between Terminals
With kids, the connection is the hard part — build in far more time than you think you need.
If you connect between Terminal 1 and Terminal 3, allow generous time for the SkyLine and the walk at each end — Fraport allows about 10–15 minutes for the SkyLine trip alone. Connecting passengers also pass the transfer security checkpoints, where the 100 ml liquids rule still applies, so pack the children's drinks accordingly. See our layover guide for managing the gap with children.
The Easy Bit: The Ride
After a flight with kids, the last thing you want is a taxi queue or a train with luggage and a stroller. A pre-booked transfer meets you in arrivals with a name board, provides child seats on request, and takes you door-to-door. See our family transfers guide and routes.
The smoothest handover happens kerbside: our transfers with fitted child seats are ready when you land, and the meet & greet walks the whole crew from the gate.
