Originally Posted by silverkris168

So when did Rhein-Main Air base close? I remember my first visit to the FRA area in the mid-80s and there were lots of US military personnel around - prominent signs on the highway that read "US FACILITIES" on the exit signs. In 1993 and 1997 I returned for a visit and the presence was much, much less due to the draw down though Rhein-Main was still operating then.

I concur with your above comments about the transport infrastructure and proximity to other major cities in the Rhine Valley as a factor in FRA's growth and continued status as a air transport hub. Plus, IME it's a heck of a lot easier to do connecting flights there compared with CDG (some flights, particularly to the Middle East or Africa, fly out of Orly) or LHR.