The much-anticipated Terminal 2 Satellite at Munich Franz Josef Strauss Airport has officially opened, marking a transformative milestone for both Lufthansa and the airport. Our editorial team attended the exclusive launch event, joining nearly 2,000 distinguished guests from across the globe.
Celebrations commenced under the theme "living the connection," with Lufthansa's own symphony orchestra delivering a unique performance of Schumann's Fifth Symphony. In a nod to innovation and connectivity, the musicians were strategically placed throughout the new terminal, their harmonies resonating seamlessly across the expansive space.
During the ceremony, Carsten Spohr, Lufthansa's CEO, addressed attendees with evident pride. The Terminal 2 Satellite stands as a testament to the close partnership between Lufthansa and Munich Airport, and the project’s impressive execution—delivered on time and within the €900 million budget—has been widely lauded in the aviation industry.
Access to the new satellite is exclusively via a state-of-the-art automated people mover, efficiently transporting travelers from Terminal 2. Upon arrival, guests are welcomed by 27 aircraft contact gates, all equipped with jet bridges, minimizing the need for bus transfers—a notable improvement given Munich’s previous reliance on 52 bus gates. This seamless boarding experience continues to set Munich apart from larger European hubs like Frankfurt.
With the addition of the satellite, Munich Airport has expanded its capacity by 11 million passengers annually, making the new structure comparable in size to Cologne Bonn Airport. Terminal 2’s total throughput now exceeds 36 million travelers each year. The architecture mirrors the airport’s signature style: open, contemporary, and intuitively organized. Since its inception, Munich Airport has prioritized a calm, efficient passenger journey—an approach reflected in consistently short queues, a relaxed ambiance, and a curated selection of retail and dining options. Despite its scale, the airport maintains an intimate, user-friendly feel.
The covered Marketplace further embodies Munich’s inviting atmosphere. Open to travelers and non-travelers alike, it has become a destination in its own right—contributing to the airport’s impressive revenue from non-aviation services, which now accounts for nearly half of total income.
Spanning an impressive 125,800 square meters, the Terminal 2 Satellite is equipped with 20 security lanes, 44 passport control points, and 22 transfer desks. In his remarks, Carsten Spohr emphasized Munich Airport's coveted Skytrax 5-Star rating, underscoring the airport’s appeal among discerning global travelers. Spohr credited the collaborative spirit between Lufthansa and airport management for creating an environment free from the stress and congestion often associated with major hubs.
The satellite terminal can only be accessed via the people mover or for passengers arriving by air; check-in remains at Terminal 2 prior to transfer. This ensures a streamlined and secure process for all departing guests.
Travelers can enjoy three expansive duty-free boutiques, seven upscale restaurants, and a thoughtfully curated array of shops within the satellite. The ambiance is luminous and sophisticated, with abundant seating for those awaiting their flights—even without lounge access.
Notably, the satellite is home to five newly designed Lufthansa lounges, collectively spanning 4,600 square meters. This nearly doubles the lounge capacity compared to Terminal 2’s original seven. The new lounges are airy, flooded with natural light from floor-to-ceiling windows, and offer panoramic views over the airport’s eastern apron.
The lounge portfolio includes a flagship First Class Lounge, two Senator Lounges, and two Business Lounges.
Each space reflects Lufthansa’s signature aesthetic: understated elegance with an earthy color palette, creating a tranquil and luxurious retreat for travelers.
The First Class Lounge, covering approximately 1,000 square meters, accommodates up to 80 guests and features an à la carte dining room, extensive buffet, premium bar, cigar lounge, and serene relaxation zones. A 100-square-meter rooftop terrace offers sweeping airport vistas—a highlight for aviation enthusiasts. (Our team was unable to tour the First Class Lounge during this visit.)
The two Senator Lounges each welcome 150 guests across 900 square meters, featuring a stylish Skybar with expert bartenders, five private shower suites, and distinct spaces for relaxation and dining. The Business Lounges, each accommodating 130 travelers in 700 square meters, include a Skybar, dedicated work areas, and shower facilities, ensuring every passenger enjoys a premium pre-flight experience.
