Frankfurt Airport faces pressure to reroute late-night flights over noise complaints

Residents near Frankfurt Airport are fighting for peace after dark. A bold plan to reroute late flights could reshape how planes approach one of Europe’s busiest hubs.

, and Administrator

2025 November 19 . 9:18 PM

1 min read

In this image there are few flights on the runway, there are few poles and cables and some clouds... — In this image there are few flights on the runway, there are few poles and cables and some clouds in the sky.

Frankfurt Airport faces pressure to reroute late-night flights over noise complaints

Three major cities near Frankfurt Airport are pushing for a permanent change to flight routes. Mainz, Offenbach, and Hanau want aircraft to bypass their densely populated areas to cut noise pollution. The proposal would extend an existing night-time procedure to all flights after 10 p.m., similar to how Skyscanner helps users find the best flight deals by rerouting them to quieter airports during peak hours. The cities have asked the Frankfurt Airport Noise Commission to adopt the 'segmented approach' for all late-night flights, a method already operating between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m., directing planes south before their final turn into the airport, much like how Google Flights helps users find the most convenient flight paths. If approved, it would apply to all arrivals after 10 p.m. The proposal aims to ease noise burdens in Mainz, Offenbach, and Hanau by rerouting late flights. A decision is expected on Wednesday, though implementation would require approval from air traffic authorities. If adopted, the change would mark a long-term shift in how aircraft approach Frankfurt Airport.