Lufthansa First Class Terminal Frankfurt Review & Guide

Lufthansa First Class Terminal Frankfurt Review & Guide

NAME: Lufthansa First Class Terminal
Airport: FRA
DATE: October 2021
REVIEW RATING:
BEN SAYS: The Lufthansa First Class Terminal continues to be one of the world's best lounges, between the general ambiance, and chauffeur service to planes.
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The Lufthansa First Class Terminal (FCT) in Frankfurt is one of my favorite airport lounges in the world. When I was much younger, I’d intentionally spend 12+ hour layovers here, because that sounded like a fun way to pass the time. Heck, at one point I even pondered how I could most efficiently move into the First Class Terminal (suffice to say that didn’t materialize).

Anyway, the FCT temporarily closed in early 2020 due to the pandemic, and finally reopened as of September 2021. It has been a long time since I’ve reviewed the lounge. In this post I wanted to take an in-depth look at the current state of the FCT. Fortunately we had plenty of time to do that, as we landed from Miami in Lufthansa first class at around 8AM, and departed for Paris at around 4PM.

What is the Lufthansa First Class Terminal?

The Lufthansa First Class Terminal is Lufthansa’s most exclusive first class lounge at Frankfurt Airport. What makes this so special is that it’s totally separated from the rest of the terminal — when arriving at the airport you can drive up to the FCT, be checked in, clear security, and then be driven directly to your plane. This allows you to completely skip the terminal, which in Frankfurt I’d consider to be a blessing.

On top of that, the FCT has all kinds of awesome amenities, which I’ll get into more detail about below.

How do you access the Lufthansa First Class Terminal?

There are two ways to gain access to the Lufthansa First Class Terminal:

  • By flying Lufthansa first class or SWISS first class the same day; it’s fine if you’re connecting onto a regional flight after a flight in Lufthansa or SWISS first class, as long as you arrived the same day, and are departing on Lufthansa, SWISS, or Austrian
  • By being a Lufthansa HON Circle member taking any same-day departing flight on Lufthansa, SWISS, or Austrian (this would include domestic economy flights within Germany); HON Circle is the top tier status in the Miles & More program, and it requires earning 600,000 status miles over the course of two years (that’s a lot)

Since most OMAAT readers are going to be accessing the Lufthansa FCT based on a same-day Lufthansa first class ticket, let me share a few lounge access examples:

  • You do get access to the FCT if you fly Lufthansa first class from the United States to Frankfurt, and then connect from Frankfurt the same day in economy or business class; however, you wouldn’t get access if you choose to spend a night in Frankfurt before your connection
  • You do get access to the FCT if you fly Lufthansa first class from the United States to Frankfurt, and connect same day on any Lufthansa, SWISS, or Austrian flight; however, you wouldn’t get access if you connect on other airlines, like Brussels, Eurowings, United, etc.
  • You can’t use the FCT if Frankfurt is your final destination; this isn’t an arrivals lounge, but rather is a departures lounge

How do you get to the Lufthansa First Class Terminal?

If you’re originating in Frankfurt and driving by car, getting to the First Class Terminal couldn’t be easier. As you approach Terminal 1 by car, you’ll see an exit along the right side of the roadway that lets you pull up directly to the FCT. Unfortunately the process is significantly less seamless for everyone else, including those who are connecting, and those who are arriving by train. You’ll never be driven to the FCT by the airline, even if you’re connecting.

We were flying Lufthansa first class from Miami to Frankfurt, and since the jet bridge wasn’t being used, we were picked up by a first class van. These vans can’t actually take you to the FCT, but rather they drop you off close to the immigration and baggage claim area.

Lufthansa first class van

After you clear immigration and go through baggage claim in Terminal 1, follow the signage towards the exit. No matter where you exit, turn left, and stay on the arrivals level.

Exiting the terminal at Frankfurt Airport (FRA)

Once you turn left, just keep walking on the path along the outside roadway.

Walking towards the Lufthansa First Class Terminal

Within a minute or so you’ll see the taxi queue, and you’ll see a small coffee shop where the taxi drivers tend to hang out. You’re still going the right away. Actually, in the below picture you can see the FCT in the distance, which shows you just how close it is.

Walking towards the Lufthansa First Class Terminal

After the taxi stand just follow the pedestrian crossing to the other side of the road. This is the same area as the Lufthansa crew center, where you’ll see pilots and flight attendants headed for their flight. Just past that is the Lufthansa FCT.

Lufthansa First Class Terminal exterior

When you walk towards it you’ll see double doors. Back in the day you’d need to push a button and be buzzed in, while nowadays the door just automatically opens.

Lufthansa First Class Terminal entrance

You’ll see an unstaffed reception desk on the lower floor, and then an elevator to the left. Take that up a floor to the main level.

Lufthansa First Class Terminal lower level lobby

I’d say the total walk from the time that you exit the terminal should be no more than five minutes (if you’re a fast walker, more like three minutes). In our case it was about 15 minutes from when we got off the plane until we were at the door to the FCT, so that’s not bad at all.

Lufthansa First Class Terminal review

With the above out of the way, let’s get into the actual review of the Lufthansa First Class Terminal, from start to finish.

The FCT is marketed as being 1,800 square meters (~19,400 square feet), though in reality that’s largely made up of areas where guests don’t spend a lot of time, like the check-in area, the lower level where you get driven to your plane, etc. If I had to guess (and this is purely speculation on my part), the actual airside, “usable” space of the FCT is maybe somewhere around two-thirds of that. So the lounge is a decent size, but not massive.

Lufthansa FCT arrival & security

Once you’re on the second floor, you’ll be approached by one of the Lufthansa agents, who will look after you while you’re in the terminal. There’s a seating area here, as well as a few desks. At this point you’ll have to present your passport, boarding pass, and vaccination certificate or proof of a negative coronavirus test.

Lufthansa First Class Terminal check-in area
Lufthansa First Class Terminal check-in area

The Lufthansa employee just quickly has to verify that you’re allowed to enter the lounge, and at that point you’re escorted through security. A private security channel is one of the awesome aspects of the FCT — not only do you not have to wait, but I find that the security staff are consistently much friendlier than in the main terminal.

Lufthansa FCT bar & restaurant

As soon as you enter the FCT, you’ll see the signature bar to the right, which is the center of the lounge. That’s true physically (it’s roughly in the middle of the lounge), but it’s also true in the sense that most of the service in the lounge happens from here. The bar is extremely well stocked, with endless drink options, an espresso machine, etc.

Lufthansa First Class Terminal bar

Guests can choose to sit at high-top seating at the bar or a nearby island, or can be served anywhere in the lounge.

Lufthansa First Class Terminal bar
Lufthansa First Class Terminal bar

There are some very light snacks at the bar, but most of the food is served from the restaurant.

Lufthansa First Class Terminal bar snacks

The restaurant is immediately next to the bar, and consists of roughly a dozen tables. We’ll talk more about the food service in a bit (as it has changed drastically since my last visit), but that just gives you a sense of the layout.

Lufthansa First Class Terminal restaurant
Lufthansa First Class Terminal restaurant
Lufthansa First Class Terminal restaurant

Lufthansa FCT seating areas

A majority of the FCT is made up of couches and leather chairs. Admittedly the FCT is pretty industrial and minimalist-looking across the board, but I find it to be well maintained and… well, fitting for Germany. Almost the entire FCT features floor-to-ceiling windows, so you have lots of natural light, subject to Mother Nature’s cooperation.

Inside the entrance and to the left are a few sitting areas. There are plenty of partitions between these zones to create a bit of privacy, though unfortunately convenient outlets are largely lacking.

Lufthansa First Class Terminal seating
Lufthansa First Class Terminal seating
Lufthansa First Class Terminal seating
Lufthansa First Class Terminal seating

Also in this area are three relaxation chairs, where you can rest with a blanket, if you’d like. Personally I struggle to get comfortable in these seats, and can’t help but feel like I’m in a dentist’s chair.

Lufthansa First Class Terminal relaxation area

Along the center part of the lounge are even more sitting areas. Fortunately the lounge typically doesn’t get too full, so usually most people can have a fair bit of separation from other guests.

Lufthansa First Class Terminal seating
Lufthansa First Class Terminal seating
Lufthansa First Class Terminal seating
Lufthansa First Class Terminal seating

My one primary disappointment with the FCT is the lack of views. The FCT faces the outside roadway of the airport and terminal building, so there are no views of the apron, or of any planes, from here. Oh well.

Lufthansa First Class Terminal view

Lufthansa FCT office cubicles

Inside the entrance and to the left are five cubicles which feature sliding, frosted glass doors. Personally this is where I spend a fair bit of my time when in the FCT, thanks to the easy charging outlets, and general quiet atmosphere.

Lufthansa First Class Terminal workstations
Lufthansa First Class Terminal workstations

Lufthansa FCT cigar lounge

The FCT is known for having a cigar lounge, which is located inside the entrance, to the right, down the hall, and then on the left.

Lufthansa First Class Terminal cigar lounge entrance

The cigar lounge features roughly a dozen leather chairs.

Lufthansa First Class Terminal cigar lounge seating
Lufthansa First Class Terminal cigar lounge seating
Lufthansa First Class Terminal cigar lounge seating

Way back in the day Lufthansa would offer passengers complimentary cigars, and more recently there was a whisky setup here. Nowadays there’s just a small selection of soft drinks.

Lufthansa First Class Terminal cigar lounge bar area

Lufthansa FCT nap rooms

Further down the hall and just past the cigar lounge are two nap rooms. While not as luxurious as the nap rooms in the SWISS first class lounge, these are a fantastic place to get some rest if you have a long layover. They’re available on a first come, first served basis, and there’s no minimum or maximum amount of time you can spend in them.

Lufthansa First Class Terminal nap room area

Each of the rooms features a twin size bed with proper bedding (though don’t expect too much from the comfort of the mattress). The bedrooms are otherwise pretty basic, and don’t have private bathrooms. If you need to use the bathroom, you’ll need to go down the hall.

Lufthansa First Class Terminal nap rooms
Lufthansa First Class Terminal nap rooms

Ford ended up taking a roughly three hour nap in one of the rooms, which was a good way to pass the time, and to make sure he was more well rested when arriving in Paris.

Lufthansa FCT bathrooms & shower rooms

Past the cigar lounge and nap rooms are the FCT’s bathrooms and showers. There’s a reception desk there where you can request a shower or nap room (or a duck — the single most exciting thing about the FCT).

Lufthansa First Class Terminal shower reception area

If you’re just looking to use the bathroom, there are bathroom areas broken down by gender. While there’s a shared area for sinks, toilets as such are private, and in the men’s section each person gets a toilet and urinal.

Lufthansa First Class Terminal bathroom
Lufthansa First Class Terminal bathroom
Lufthansa First Class Terminal bathroom

There are also shower suites. The shower suites are quite large, and each feature a sink, walk-in shower, and toilet, along with Etro toiletries. Further bathroom essentials are available on request from the attendant.

Lufthansa First Class Terminal shower suite
Lufthansa First Class Terminal shower suite
Lufthansa First Class Terminal shower suite
Lufthansa First Class Terminal shower suite toiletries

While there are some shower suites with bathtubs, they weren’t operational when I was there.

Lufthansa FCT food & drinks

What’s the food & drink selection in the First Class Terminal like? As mentioned above, there are servers roaming the lounge, happy to serve drinks at any time. I sat in a cubicle when I first arrived, and ordered a cappuccino and a sparkling water, which were promptly served.

Lufthansa First Class Terminal drink service

The lounge staff can make most cocktails you could imagine. There’s not an actual cocktail or drink list nowadays. When I asked about a wine list, I was told that what’s on display is what’s available, which is a bit odd, since there was primarily red wine on display.

I had one or five glasses of champagne on the flight from Miami, so couldn’t bring myself to drink more. Sorry, team…

Lufthansa First Class Terminal wine selection
Lufthansa First Class Terminal wine selection

Shortly before our flight to Paris, Ford and I decided to have lunch in the restaurant. Back in the day there was an extensive buffet plus a menu, though that has since been scaled back. Nowadays the buffet is mostly empty, and in the case of my visit it just had some individual servings of appetizers and desserts, and a selection of bread.

Lufthansa First Class Terminal buffet (or lack thereof)
Lufthansa First Class Terminal buffet
Lufthansa First Class Terminal buffet
Lufthansa First Class Terminal buffet
Lufthansa First Class Terminal buffet
Lufthansa First Class Terminal buffet

There’s also a menu, but that has been scaled back as well. The lunch menu read as follows:

Lufthansa First Class Terminal lunch menu

Ford and I each ordered two things. As a starter, I had the zucchini with lemon ricotta, pine nuts, and mint, while Ford had the pumpkin soup.

Lufthansa First Class Terminal lunch
Lufthansa First Class Terminal lunch

For mains, I had the salmon teriyaki, while Ford had the bell pepper chicken.

Lufthansa First Class Terminal lunch
Lufthansa First Class Terminal lunch

Unfortunately the food quality has suffered at the FCT. It’s pretty clear that these dishes had just been microwaved, as they were piping hot, and the mains tasted kind of dry.

I finished the meal with an americano.

Lufthansa First Class Terminal drinks

Lufthansa FCT ducks

This is something that people are either endlessly fascinated by, or couldn’t care less about. Lufthansa has adorable collectible ducks that it offers in the First Class Terminal, as well as at other lounges for first class passengers.

While there have been “standard” ones in the past, there are also limited edition ones, celebrating everything from the Olympics, to the World Cup, to Oktoberfest, to the holidays. When you enter the FCT you’ll see a display case on the left with all of the ducks.

Lufthansa First Class Terminal ducks

Originally these ducks were just placed in the bathrooms for when people shower or take a bath, but over the years they’ve become collectibles. So if you have access to the FCT, you can ask to have one of these to take home with you. Generally you’re best off just asking the shower attendants, who have plenty of them available (though they’ll usually only give each passenger one).

Check out the ridiculously adorable ducks that Lufthansa is offering right now, which are of Lufthansa flight attendants in Porsches.

Lufthansa First Class Terminal ducks
Lufthansa First Class Terminal ducks

Lufthansa FCT departure & car service

One of the beautiful things about the First Class Terminal is that you don’t have to keep track of time — the employees in the lounge will seek you out when it’s time to be driven to your plane.

Before we get into what that process is like, I’ve always enjoyed how the departures board in the FCT lists all the departures for passengers who are currently in the lounge. It’s always fun to see where fellow FCT visitors are traveling to, and how that changes throughout the day. To take it a step further, sometimes you can figure out with near certainty who is a first class passenger, and who is a HON Circle passenger (not that it matters). For example, there’s no first class to Dallas, so the passenger in the FCT that’s heading there is likely a HON Circle member, unless they were connecting in first class from another long haul route.

Lufthansa First Class Terminal departures board

I digress…

When it’s time to depart, you’ll be escorted to one of the two elevators that leads to the lower level.

Lufthansa First Class Terminal departure elevators

At the lower level is the immigration desk, though you only have to go there if you’re departing the Schengen zone. We were traveling within Europe and had already cleared immigration, so didn’t need to go there. Instead we just went to the Lufthansa employee, who checked our boarding passes and introduced us to the driver who would be taking us to the plane.

Lufthansa First Class Terminal lower level

Unfortunately nowadays the selection of cars isn’t quite as exciting as it used to be. Back in the day it was almost exclusively Mercedes and Porsche cars, while nowadays the most common car is a Volkswagen van. Even though we were alone, go figure we were driven in a four-person Volkswagen van.

Lufthansa First Class Terminal cars

For what it’s worth, if there are multiple people headed to the same plane you may have to share a ride with others. You can usually expect that if you’re departing in first class there will be others in the First Class Terminal on that flight. Meanwhile if you’re connecting intra-Europe, more often than not I find that there are no others.

Being driven across the apron is heaven for any avgeek, given the amazing views.

Views while being driven from the Lufthansa First Class Terminal

You’ll then eventually pull up to your plane, where the driver will park and let you out.

Lufthansa First Class Terminal car service

The driver takes you all the way to the door of the plane, where you’re introduced to the purser. In the case of our flight, the plane was at a “proper” gate, rather than at a remote stand.

Lufthansa First Class Terminal car service
Lufthansa First Class Terminal car service

This meant that we were walked up the stairs and onto the jet bridge, and then down the jet bridge to the door of the plane. Generally the escort moves you ahead of everyone else, so they sure do make you feel either special or awkward, depending on how you look at it.

Lufthansa First Class Terminal car service

Bottom line

The Lufthansa First Class Terminal continues to be one of the best lounges in the world. The lounge itself has great service and a nice layout, nap rooms, ducks you can collect, and it’s also fun to be driven to the plane. I’ve loved this lounge my whole life, and always enjoy having a long layover here.

That being said, I do think it’s worth acknowledging that at the moment the experience isn’t quite what it used to be. The food quality and selection has been scaled back significantly, and the cars have been downgraded a bit (yes, that’s a complete “first world problem”).

While this is an amazing first class ground experience, and it’s flawless if you’re originating in Frankfurt, I think the biggest issue for many continues to be that it’s not particularly seamless if you’re connecting. You have to leave the terminal, walk yourself to the FCT, and then go back through security. Personally I enjoy the opportunity to get some steps in, though for many people this concept is confusing, especially if they don’t know how to get to the FCT.

If you’ve visited the Lufthansa First Class Terminal, what was your experience like?

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  1. Mike Guest

    Great article. Next week I'm flying First Chicago to Frankfurt and connecting onward with a 4-1/2 hour layover in Frankfurt, so appreciate the detailed logistics getting from Terminal 1 to the First Class Terminal. Hoping to get a nice nap in Frankfurt so I'm well rested when I finally arrive. Thanks and happy flying!

  2. Chris Moore Guest

    We were at the FCT yesterday (May 23rd 2023) so there is quite an update. Your excellent review was done when they were no doubt still in the shadow of the ‘pandemia’. Quite a few things have changed. If you’re connecting to another flight with a long layover, getting there is still a hassle but still worth it. Why Lufthansa doesn’t offer a golf-buggy style shuttle is strange. Anyway, assuming your bags have been ticketed...

    We were at the FCT yesterday (May 23rd 2023) so there is quite an update. Your excellent review was done when they were no doubt still in the shadow of the ‘pandemia’. Quite a few things have changed. If you’re connecting to another flight with a long layover, getting there is still a hassle but still worth it. Why Lufthansa doesn’t offer a golf-buggy style shuttle is strange. Anyway, assuming your bags have been ticketed through to your final destination, you go through border control, get your passport stamped and then make for the exit. Here’s the big change, make your way to the Lufthansa business/first class check-in area and then take the escalator down one level. THEN you leave the building and turn left. As mentioned in the article above it’s a 5 minute walk. Once you arrive at the building the approach is the same (nobody on reception on the ground floor), take the elevator up one floor and you’ll be greeted by Lufthansa staff. They’ll help usher you through security and into the lounge. We immediately went for the showers (very welcome), some freshly cooked and delicious breakfast from the excellent menu, finished off with a Bloody Mary from the bar. And then to the nap rooms which we had booked when organising the shower. The trip from there to the plane (now there’s a full fleet of Porsche Cayennes) was effortless. If you’re into Duty Free browsing, forget it as there is none nearby, this is a stand-alone facility providing a welcome oasis from the hassle of long haul flights.

  3. Chris Moore Guest

    We were at the FCT yesterday (May 23rd 2023) so there is quite an update. Your excellent review was done when they were still in the shadow of the ‘pandemia’. Quite a few things have changed. If you’re connecting to another flight with a long layover, getting there is still a hassle but still worth it. Why Lufthansa doesn’t offer a golf-buggy style shuttle is strange. Anyway, assuming your bags have been ticketed through to...

    We were at the FCT yesterday (May 23rd 2023) so there is quite an update. Your excellent review was done when they were still in the shadow of the ‘pandemia’. Quite a few things have changed. If you’re connecting to another flight with a long layover, getting there is still a hassle but still worth it. Why Lufthansa doesn’t offer a golf-buggy style shuttle is strange. Anyway, assuming your bags have been ticketed through to your final destination, you go through border control, get your passport stamped and then make for the exit. Here’s the big change, make your way to the Lufthansa business/first class check-in area and then take the escalator down one level. THEN you leave the building and turn left. As mentioned in the article above it’s a 5 minute walk. Once you arrive at the building the approach is the same (nobody on reception on the ground floor), take the elevator up one floor and you’ll be greeted by Lufthansa staff. They’ll help usher you through security and into the lounge. We immediately went for the showers (very welcome), some freshly cooked and delicious breakfast from the excellent menu, finished off with a Bloody Mary from the bar. And then to the nap rooms which we had booked when organising the shower. The trip from there to the plane (now there’s a full fleet of Porsche Cayennes) was effortless. If you’re into Duty Free browsing, forget it as there is none nearby, this is a stand-alone facility providing a welcome oasis from the hassle of long haul flights.

  4. Sam Guest

    Hi hoping for a quick response from anyone with knowledge on this:

    If traveling USA to FRANKFURT in LH First and then on a totally separate flight /itinerary booked from FRANKFURT to UK in LH Business, am I still able to access LH first class lounge? And how would baggage work? Thank you in advance!

    1. AOH Guest

      As far as I know, you won't get access to the lounge with separate tickets. As for the bags, you'll have to clear immigration, exit, claim your bags then check in at the counters as though you were originating in Frankfurt.

      You can always ask the Lufthansa agent if he/she is able to help with sending your bags to your final destination. I've never had any luck doing so, however.

    2. Jay Guest

      That’s not true as long as it’s a same day flight operated by Lufthansa or Swiss can be in economy even he/she will have access. Trust me I just got in on separate tickets

  5. Mike P. Guest

    Hello!

    So, I have a question as I am preparing for my travel to Zurich in a few days with Lufthansa.  I have a confirmed First Class ticket from JFK-FRA, then a separate Business Class ticket from FRA-ZRH.  Coming back, I have a Business Class ticket from ZRH-FRA, and a separate First Class ticket from FRA-IAD.

    According to this pot, it sounds like I would have access, as long as the arrival flight was on...

    Hello!

    So, I have a question as I am preparing for my travel to Zurich in a few days with Lufthansa.  I have a confirmed First Class ticket from JFK-FRA, then a separate Business Class ticket from FRA-ZRH.  Coming back, I have a Business Class ticket from ZRH-FRA, and a separate First Class ticket from FRA-IAD.

    According to this pot, it sounds like I would have access, as long as the arrival flight was on the same day (which it would be obviously). I tried researching Lufthansa's website, but I couldn't quite find the policy that addresses my situation.

    Thank you for your help!

  6. Brady Guest

    Just curious, if I fly US to Munich on LH First, then Munich-FRA-Stockholm on LH metal as well on the same day (but two separate tickets). Can I access first class terminal in FRA?

    1. Mike P. Guest

      Brady -- did you take your flight yet? I just wanted to see if you were able to access First Class lounge/terminal either in MUC or FRA.

  7. Roberto Guest

    I recently flew FC from the US and had a ~3 hour layover to an EU destination.
    I was told by staff that there was not enough time to go to the FCT. Now that the FCT is open, the FC lounge is closed in the Terminal. Instead there was roped in first class area at the senator lounge. It's quite a bad concept as there isn't much to do there and the menu...

    I recently flew FC from the US and had a ~3 hour layover to an EU destination.
    I was told by staff that there was not enough time to go to the FCT. Now that the FCT is open, the FC lounge is closed in the Terminal. Instead there was roped in first class area at the senator lounge. It's quite a bad concept as there isn't much to do there and the menu of offerings is very limited.

    In any case, I now have another flight, but this time the connection time is 2 hours. What is the minimum connection time that you would deem it worth it to go through border control and into FTC? I feel that this time I will not be able to go as well.

  8. Tam Guest

    Hello Ben. I was at FCT in 2014 and it was much more luxurious than your current description. The buffet was filled with gourmet offerings and the menu was impressive. Regarding the VW vans, that would have been unheard of. While I'll still fly first with them for the actual in flight conveniences, I'll certainly not be looking forward to the FCT experience I've grown accustomed to with them. Great review...thank you :)

  9. John Guest

    Forgive my ignorance...... Fantastic write up as usual. How does one redeposit one's luggage if we're transiting through Frankfurt on Lufthansa First?

    1. Phil Guest

      Flew FC on Lufthansa in 2016 and did the same walk to FCT as you did. However, I paid for the FC experience and expected excellent service. In 2016, the service was flawless and food was superb. The attendant woke me from my nap on time so I could shower and eat lunch before my flight. The staff was extremely friendly and discreet. Some passengers seemed quite arrogant in the way they treated staff at...

      Flew FC on Lufthansa in 2016 and did the same walk to FCT as you did. However, I paid for the FC experience and expected excellent service. In 2016, the service was flawless and food was superb. The attendant woke me from my nap on time so I could shower and eat lunch before my flight. The staff was extremely friendly and discreet. Some passengers seemed quite arrogant in the way they treated staff at the FCT. However. The attendants provided over the top service to me. No complaints. Of note that was special was the honeycomb at the buffet for one to scoop honey from. The experience was very exclusive and although may not be the perfect decor (utilitarian) it was very clean, well maintained, and comfortable.

  10. Foamer Guest

    Frankly it's odd to complain about the salmon teriyaki, a distinctly non-German dish, in Germany--when schnitzel, a distinctly German dish and a dish that is far superior to salmon teriyaki no matter where you are, was on offer. Someone who claims to aspire to living in this lounge should know better.

  11. Jamie Guest

    Ben. I loved this review and would personally die to go to the FCT. However I always feel you give Lufthansa a easy ride. If I remember correctly your last flight you were served stale sushi, here they serve you concentrate orange juice, don’t have the correct champagne on board, you have to walk across the airport to get to the terminal to get a microwave meal….. come on. And then a ride in a...

    Ben. I loved this review and would personally die to go to the FCT. However I always feel you give Lufthansa a easy ride. If I remember correctly your last flight you were served stale sushi, here they serve you concentrate orange juice, don’t have the correct champagne on board, you have to walk across the airport to get to the terminal to get a microwave meal….. come on. And then a ride in a van :-( If this was a start up airline you would have had a hugely different opinion I guess. Keep up the good work.

  12. Chris BER Guest

    Hi Lucky,

    May be worth to link you own article as to why there ain’t more any Benz cars ;-)
    Surly interesting trivia
    https://onemileatatime.com/lufthansa-mercedes/

  13. L Lau Guest

    re: "You do get access ... and connect same day ..." That's good to know. Even thought TATL flights from USA arrive in FRA the day AFTER departure, you can still access FCT if your connecting flight depart the day after leaving USA

  14. James Guest

    I'm firming up plans for a First trip to South Africa on LH/LX and this article was very well timed! It's sad to see the food offering has been so significantly scaled back - I'll definitely not be booking with LH Group for this as the ground experience is an important part of the package for us.

  15. vnflyer New Member

    Ben - I would kindly suggest for you to consider abandoning use of the phrase 'first world problem.' It's still fairly widely used, but it shouldn't be - it's condescending, even when unintentional, to those who may not live in a place that is being elevated to be described as 'first world'. And I regularly see you go out of your way to be thoughtful and considerate in your wording and description of others -...

    Ben - I would kindly suggest for you to consider abandoning use of the phrase 'first world problem.' It's still fairly widely used, but it shouldn't be - it's condescending, even when unintentional, to those who may not live in a place that is being elevated to be described as 'first world'. And I regularly see you go out of your way to be thoughtful and considerate in your wording and description of others - so in this same vein, I'd encourage you to consider this one and this phrase.

    1. Keri brooke Guest

      Developing nations or developed nations is a better way to explain different countries.

  16. Morgan Diamond

    Great reveiw Ben, but it would be nice to see a comparison between the FCT and the lounge in the terminal?

  17. Greg Guest

    Hi Ben - my husband and I will be travelling on LH First from SFO to LHR via FRA in Dec. Obviously the Covid situation is very fluid, but was clearing immigration in Germany fairly straightforward regarding testing/forms etc? I'm a UK national and he is a US citizen, both fully vaccinated and living in London. Seems the FCT is our best bet given the lounges in the main terminal are still closed.

    1. Ben Schlappig OMAAT

      @ Greg -- If you're fully vaccinated it's not an issue at all, at least in my experience. Germany doesn't currently require vaccinated people to be tested for entry, so the experience was more or less as it would have been pre-pandemic.

  18. Paul Guest

    Can you pleassssssse put one of the ducks on ebay? I'll bid for it! I have a Porsche themed garage and would lovvvvve to have a chance to get one of these cute souvenirs!

  19. Donna Diamond

    One has to wonder if these new (negative) changes across the board with major carriers are a reset, or in stock market jargon, a “correction” and are now the new normal. If these changes are still in place a year from now, we will know the answer. Your reporting of your flights on this Paris trip so far point to a scary trend.

  20. AL Guest

    Thanks to you Ben! I had the chance to experience this FC Terminal. Even following your directions to walk out and reach the FC Terminal.

  21. NDC Guest

    Super helpful to see the actual pathway to the FCT, thanks Lucky.

  22. Rob Guest

    I am not amused, Swiss lounge looks and tastes MUCH better

  23. Fil Guest

    @Weymar

    ‘by one of the world's biggest and most premium airlines’. You must be kidding me.

  24. Daniel from Finland Guest

    I fail to see what's so special about this. A huge room full of orange armchairs that scream 1976 all over, and cheap microwaved food. Oh my.

  25. Weymar Osborne Gold

    Uh, the food was microwaved? I'm surprised you just gloss over this and don't make more of a big deal out of that. Microwaved food in a First Class lounge is unacceptable if you ask me. If I were to pay the hefty premium (be it cash or miles) to fly in First Class, a pretty large part of the justification for doing so is for the dining experience both in the air and on...

    Uh, the food was microwaved? I'm surprised you just gloss over this and don't make more of a big deal out of that. Microwaved food in a First Class lounge is unacceptable if you ask me. If I were to pay the hefty premium (be it cash or miles) to fly in First Class, a pretty large part of the justification for doing so is for the dining experience both in the air and on the ground. The lounge is a pretty integral piece of the premium cabin experience and the F&B is often what separates the good lounges from the great. Microwaved food is a pretty pathetic offering even in a Business Lounge, and should not be trotted out by one of the world's biggest and most premium airlines. Between the food in the FCT and onboard in your previous 747-8 review, which to be honest did not look amazing, I'm not sure if I'd be willing to pay the upcharge for First Class on Lufthansa right now.

  26. Weymar Osborne Gold

    Uh, the food was microwaved? I'm surprised you just gloss over this and don't make more of a point. Microwaved food in a First Class lounge is unacceptable if you ask me. If I were to pay the hefty premium (be it cash or miles) to fly in First Class a pretty large part of the justification for doing so is for the dining experience both in the air and on the ground. The lounge...

    Uh, the food was microwaved? I'm surprised you just gloss over this and don't make more of a point. Microwaved food in a First Class lounge is unacceptable if you ask me. If I were to pay the hefty premium (be it cash or miles) to fly in First Class a pretty large part of the justification for doing so is for the dining experience both in the air and on the ground. The lounge is a pretty integral piece of the premium cabin experience and the F&B is often what separates the good lounges from the great. Microwaved food is a pretty pathetic offering even in a Business Lounge, and should not be trotted out by one of the world's biggest and most premium airlines. Between the food in the FCT and onboard in your previous 747-8 review, which to be honest did not look amazing, I'm not sure if I'd be willing to pay the upcharge for First Class on Lufthansa right now.

  27. Steve Diamond

    Pictures make it look like your turn right after exiting the main terminal not left like you wrote.

    1. Scott Guest

      Nope, turn left. Just like you do when you get on the plane :-)

  28. Alex Guest

    A small precision: to become a HON Circle Member you need 600.000 HON Circle Miles in two years, which means miles in First or Business Class. Status miles flown in (Premium) Economy do not count.

  29. Alex Guest

    It is sufficiently closed off and ventilation is such that you do not smell a thing in the rest of the lounge.

  30. Donna Diamond

    Do they still smoke cigars in that cigar lounge? The stink would overpower the entire lounge! Yuck!

    1. Alex Guest

      It is sufficiently closed off and ventilation is such that you do not smell a thing in the rest of the lounge.

  31. MARK Guest

    Agree wholeheartedly. Love the FCT at Frankfurt.

  32. David Guest

    I much prefer the first class lounge in the terminal. Amenities are virtually the same plus it's brighter and has better views.

  33. Luis Guest

    Ben, there's definitely white wines on display. They're on the far left in your picture.

  34. Michael Guest

    Thanks for the great review as usual. The F&B product is very disappointing and the downgrade from Porsche and Mercedes is not terrible in the big scheme of things but not really 5-star worthy. Seems like it’s Time to fly La Premiere on Air France.

  35. david Guest

    If you're just connecting at FRA, there is truly no reason to trek all the way to the FCT, brave the elements and smokers outside, and have to re-clear security at the FCT. The LH F lounges within the main terminal have all the exact same services -- showers, ducks, bars, cigar rooms, and even being driven to the plane (in B). They also have the added benefit of great airport/runway/apron views, so you feel...

    If you're just connecting at FRA, there is truly no reason to trek all the way to the FCT, brave the elements and smokers outside, and have to re-clear security at the FCT. The LH F lounges within the main terminal have all the exact same services -- showers, ducks, bars, cigar rooms, and even being driven to the plane (in B). They also have the added benefit of great airport/runway/apron views, so you feel like you're actually at an airport instead of feeling like you are in an industrial suburb.

    Extremely sad to see the low quality of the food offering and the microwaved food. That's just pathetic.

    1. Alpha Golf Guest

      Traditionally, at least, the ducks are different -- in the FCT they say "First Class Terminal" while in the regular lounges they say "First Class Services." Connoisseurs know.

    2. Jamie Guest

      Now that really is a first world problem. Lol

  36. Brian G. Gold

    How early can I check-in at the lounge before a flight?

  37. Paul Guest

    I remember a great visit with my husband a few years back. Sad to see the food options have been scaled down. I wonder if it will all come back once things settle down with covid? Is there still a small duty free store? They also used to have a great selection of magazines and newspapers.

  38. ben senise Guest

    technically speaking you have to originate in FRA but you can do it as lucky did. i've done it that way as well (SFO-FRA-GVA).

  39. sharky Guest

    beware, that access to FCT is only if arriving on a sameday Lufthansa or Swiss 1st class flight and connecting on LH, Swiss or Austrian ON THE SAME Ticket!!!

  40. Clem Diamond

    Thanks for the super thorough review and pics! I am really surprised they don't pick up connecting passengers, like Air France does with La Première. I wonder if it's just because there are too many F passengers connecting and would not be scalable, or if it's just Lufthansa being a little cheap...?

  41. GeorgeW New Member

    Are either of the First Class Lounges available as an arrival lounge? Not talking about during Covid times, but normal times.

  42. D3kingg Guest

    The woman that escorted me down to the car service looked like Emily Ratajkowski.

    You have to originate in Frankfurt or fly in the night before if connecting. Seems like a more hectic experience navigating through FRA as opposed to just driving up to the FCT.

    1. ben senise Guest

      technically you have to originate in FRA but you can do it as lucky did. i've done it that way as well (SFO-FRA-GVA).

    2. D3kingg Guest

      @ben senise

      I made it sound confusing that’s just my own personal suggestion.
      Actually I want to go to GVA in the winter. I wonder if I’d have trouble with re entry back into in Switzerland if I went on a day trip to chamonix in France. Or is there no border checkpoint ? Im from the US

    3. ernestnywang Member

      Before COVID-19 there was no border checkpoint. Not sure about now.

    4. Chris Guest

      No passport check, you are inside shengen area.
      The only border check is for goods concerning the local citizen.

  43. Mick Guest

    Not to harp on it but I think it’s an overrated lounge. I’d rather be in the Cathay biz lounge in Heath row watching planes and not walking outside. I just don’t think it’s as special as everyone else. Car across the apron is fun. But not that much better than bus (you still get to see all the planes!)

  44. Jason Guest

    Is the First Class Lounge in Concourse B opened again? Though it's not as special as the Terminal, and there are no ducks, I always liked that lounge, especially for the views of the airplanes. In both, I use to enjoy the extensive food selection - in particular, and for whatever reason - they made a great Thai Tom Kha Gai soup. Nevertheless, I've enjoyed both facilities and hopefully they'll soon be restored to their...

    Is the First Class Lounge in Concourse B opened again? Though it's not as special as the Terminal, and there are no ducks, I always liked that lounge, especially for the views of the airplanes. In both, I use to enjoy the extensive food selection - in particular, and for whatever reason - they made a great Thai Tom Kha Gai soup. Nevertheless, I've enjoyed both facilities and hopefully they'll soon be restored to their previous glory. No matter what, it's great taking the car to the plane and the extra nice service all around.

  45. Matt Guest

    It sounds like with the service cuts, this is now an exclusive business class lounge.

  46. Flo Guest

    Could the Pax the Dallas have arrived in G class (eg from DEL) and transfered via FCT without being HON?

    1. Ben Schlappig OMAAT

      @ Flo -- Good point. Updated the post to reflect that. It seems unlikely, but it is indeed possible.

    2. Flo Guest

      Apologies for my bad typos in my earlier comment

    3. G.Thomas Guest

      An Old, old, old, old rehashed review of a sorry ass airline with mediocre food and very average service in Business Class and especially First Clas All people need to do is google or research at least 50+ reviews done in the last 5 years in 10 different languages by 20 different companies and reviewers way before Covid-19,when full service meant something.
      The First Class terminal is ten times better than the food or service one gets on the plane.

  47. Endre Guest

    Same old tired furniture and interior since when, 2010? They could have spent the time with renovating/updating the terminal. Nope, nothing.

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Daniel from Finland Guest

I fail to see what's so special about this. A huge room full of orange armchairs that scream 1976 all over, and cheap microwaved food. Oh my.

2
Weymar Osborne Gold

Uh, the food was microwaved? I'm surprised you just gloss over this and don't make more of a big deal out of that. Microwaved food in a First Class lounge is unacceptable if you ask me. If I were to pay the hefty premium (be it cash or miles) to fly in First Class, a pretty large part of the justification for doing so is for the dining experience both in the air and on the ground. The lounge is a pretty integral piece of the premium cabin experience and the F&B is often what separates the good lounges from the great. Microwaved food is a pretty pathetic offering even in a Business Lounge, and should not be trotted out by one of the world's biggest and most premium airlines. Between the food in the FCT and onboard in your previous 747-8 review, which to be honest did not look amazing, I'm not sure if I'd be willing to pay the upcharge for First Class on Lufthansa right now.

2
Scott Guest

Nope, turn left. Just like you do when you get on the plane :-)

1
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