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Old Jul 29, 2013, 5:44 am
FlyerTalk Forums Expert How-Tos and Guides
Last edit by: supine
Do I have entitlement to access the First Class Terminal (FCT) in FRA?
- Yes, if you are departing from FRA on a flight operated by LH/LX/OS, and at least one of the following is true:
  • The class of service on your departing flight from FRA is F.
  • You have arrived on a confirmed F segment on LH or LX metal, on the same day, even if the ticket of that F segment is different from the ticket of the segment from FRA.
  • You will be departing on a confirmed F segment on LH or LX metal, on the same day from a connecting station, and the ticket of that F segment is the same ticket as the segment from FRA. Separate tickets means you are not entitled to FCT access.
  • You hold HON status.
  • You are invited as a guest by someone who meets the above criteria, and you meet the requirements of a guest as discussed later in this FAQ.


But the LH website contradicts the above:"Access to the First Class Terminal at Frankfurt Airport is only possible with a confirmed same-day departing First Class flight on Lufthansa or SWISS. HON Circle Members may access the First Class Terminal with a same-day departing flight on Lufthansa, SWISS or Austrian Airlines. Access to the First Class Terminal is not permitted for arriving passengers."

- The above has been on the web site for some time, and does not appear to be the actual policy, as many here attest from personal experience.

What are the opening times of the FCT?
- 0530 to 2200 daily

Where is it located?
- About 200 metres to the west of Terminal 1

If arriving in FRA on a LH operated flight in F, will I get a car transfer from the arriving flight?
- Ordinarily, no. However, if you hold HON status, you're arriving / departing from an apron position and your onward flight is operated by LH / LX / OS, LH aims to send a car to meet you from your arriving aircraft. See for more info. NB If you do get the car service on arrival, you will be driven to the main arrivals area and not the FCT, as this does not offer immigration and customs facilities for inbound passengers.

How do I get to the FCT in FRA?
- The First Class Terminal at Frankfurt is located close to Terminal 1. You can reach it by car via the access road to Terminal 1: the entrance to the First Class Terminal is off this road, approximately 200 metres before you get to Terminal 1. When arriving on public transport, the First Class Terminal is only a few minutes’ walk from Terminal 1.

Locations of Lufthansa lounges at Frankfurt Airport

The FCT is a departure terminal/lounge and is not meant for transfer pax. Transfer pax can use the FCLs located in the main terminal building which offer the same amenities as the FCT. There is no transfer or shuttle to the FCT. You can walk to the FCT, though.

If on departure level take the escalator down to arrival, walk out of the terminal and turn left. You will pass the bus shuttles to the airport hotels and taxis. Cross the street - whilst waking under the access road above to departures - you will see taxi divers' coffee shop to the right - and more taxis parked to your left. You will see the First Class Terminal across the street. Cross the street in front of the coffee shop, turn right and the First Class Terminal is on your left. Go through the automatic doors and take the elevator to the main reception area.

Pictorial guide may be found here.

If the FCT is not meant to be a transfer lounge then why do some people use it as such?
- Aside from the experience, there are practical reasons for you to consider using the FCT for a connection:
  • If you have a long layover, the FCT will be less crowded than the FCL B (but more crowded than the even newer FCL A by A13).
  • If your connection requires clearing passport controls, it is faster to do it at the FCT where you will surrender your passport upon admittance and get it back moments before you are driven to your plane. Presumably if immigration has questions they will deal with it while you are lounging in the FCT versus waiting until you depart for your plane. Note that permanent residents of the USA who are heading back to the USA from FRA or a connecting airport should also surrender their green card, but gently but firmly request it be returned quickly. The German immigration people don't need your green card, and LH only needs it to enter into the passenger record, so there is no reason why your personal assistant cannot return it to you soon after.
  • You do not have to waste time walking from the FCL to a gate position that is potentially more distant from the lounge than your arriving gate, or worse yet, is actually a bus to a plane parked at an apron position in the middle of the tarmac. You will leave the FCT after boarding starts and a driver will take you to the plane wherever it is.
  • If your plane is parked at a jetway, you will be whisked to the front of the line of pax boarding in the jetway, saving even more time.
  • If your connection requires going through security, you are guaranteed to have a much faster and gentler screening at the FCT than going through security in the main terminals, and if you are carrying valuables, the FCT checkpoint eliminates all angst about theft or forgetting them.


How many guests am I permitted in the FCT?
- One, assuming a lower cabin class and that they will be travelling on the same flight as you. If they also are confirmed to travel in F, they too will be entitled to a guest, meeting the same criteria
- Anyone with a confirmed segment in F is also entitled to bring in their spouse/partner and/or children, provided they are departing on the same flight, irrespective of the cabin class they are travelling in

I’m arriving on LH/LX/OS C and departing TG/SQ/etc. F, do I get in to the F terminal?
- No, but you will have access LH Senator (Star Alliance Gold) Lounges which are designated as First Class Lounges for Star Alliance carriers.

I'm arriving on TG/SQ/etc. F and departing on LH, Swiss, Austrian C do I get in to the FCT?
- Not unless you hold HON status, otherwise you will have access LH Business Lounges unlesss you hold Star Alliance Gold status and access to LH Senator (Star Alliance Gold) Lounges. Certain airlines (e.g. SQ) have arrangements for arriving F passengers to access LH Senator Lounges regardless of their status.

I’m arriving on any carrier in any cabin class and departing same day on LH/LX F do I get in to the FCT?
- Yes.

I'm arriving on LH / LX F and departing same day on another carrier in any cabin class, will I have access to the FCT?
- Yes, if your onward flight is operated by LH, Swiss or Austrian Airlines Group. Otherwise, you will only have access to the LH First Class Lounges or (if eligible) the lounge of the airline operating your onward flight.

What is the minimum connect time between flights in order to use the FCT?
- 90 mins is recommended, however some have observed that 60 mins is acceptable, while others still have got away with just 20 mins. Bear in mind, if in transit, that you will need to factor in the time between arrival and departure

Do I need to tip the staff in the FCT?
- According to LH policy, FCT staff are not allowed to accept gratuities.

What's the food like in the FCT?
- Well above the standard of anything you might expect from any airline in the air, a cut above lounge food of any other airline and equivalent to a smart restaurant in any major city

VAT Refund
- Yes, but there is a $75 trip fee and CC refund only.

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The FRA F/HON First Class Terminal FCT FAQ

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Old Apr 6, 2023, 11:26 am
  #5686  
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Originally Posted by hugolover
Where you off to? BArb's Mackerel Salads tempting you?
I have time to decide, Allegris & Non Sense are not tempting me but we can chat about that over a drink in the FCT once you qualify
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Old Apr 6, 2023, 2:48 pm
  #5687  
 
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Originally Posted by chris63
You want in when the rest of us are leaving ?
It's still a step up from *G.

Realistically, no, I'm not doing it if it means every weekend in Tel Aviv for 3 months straight. I would, if there was a bit more variation, probably, but hey, it's the price of one intercontinental J ticket in high season.
I don't have a family or much in the way of obligations that would prevent me from doing it, if just to say I did.
(barring the high risk of reaching HON status and deciding not to set foot in a group A320 cabin for as long as the status is valid and more)
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Old Apr 6, 2023, 3:14 pm
  #5688  
 
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Originally Posted by chris63
I have time to decide, Allegris & Non Sense are not tempting me but we can chat about that over a drink in the FCT once you qualify
count me in for that drink
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Old Apr 6, 2023, 3:19 pm
  #5689  
 
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Originally Posted by Fabo.sk
It's still a step up from *G.

Realistically, no, I'm not doing it if it means every weekend in Tel Aviv for 3 months straight. I would, if there was a bit more variation, probably, but hey, it's the price of one intercontinental J ticket in high season.
I don't have a family or much in the way of obligations that would prevent me from doing it, if just to say I did.
(barring the high risk of reaching HON status and deciding not to set foot in a group A320 cabin for as long as the status is valid and more)
interesting view about A320. Can you tell why? Is it to TLV only or in general?
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Old Apr 6, 2023, 4:02 pm
  #5690  
 
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Originally Posted by Patrickschmidt
interesting view about A320. Can you tell why? Is it to TLV only or in general?
TLV, BEY and AMM are going to be sweet spots in M&M earning scheme starting next year, being intercontinental, unlike say CAI, TUN or EVN.

Yet flying to TLV is 4 hours in an A320 (or a 737, if taking LOT). Plus the connection, whether from AMS or BRU or whatever the case may be.

That's 26 4 hour flights in a narrowbody.
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Old Apr 6, 2023, 8:24 pm
  #5691  
 
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Originally Posted by Fabo.sk
It's still a step up from *G.
Realistically, no, I'm not doing it if it means every weekend in Tel Aviv for 3 months straight. I would, if there was a bit more variation, probably, but hey, it's the price of one intercontinental J ticket in high season.
I don't have a family or much in the way of obligations that would prevent me from doing it, if just to say I did.
(barring the high risk of reaching HON status and deciding not to set foot in a group A320 cabin for as long as the status is valid and more)
You do not fly in F, not becoming HON, so leave those threads to competent HONs and regular F flyers. Enough of copy-paste wannabies! Purchase recommendation in bulk: https://www.ebay.de/itm/124833928637...Bk9SR5T5-ZfrYQ
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Old Apr 7, 2023, 3:15 am
  #5692  
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Originally Posted by Patrickschmidt
count me in for that drink
Since Carsten will be treating us, it wont be just the one
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Old Apr 7, 2023, 3:20 am
  #5693  
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Originally Posted by Fabo.sk
That's 26 4 hour flights in a narrowbody.
You would need a medal not just a HON card

Oh and a good Osteopath

However if already HON, a good session at the FCT Whiskey bar & you might just come round on arrival at TLV
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Old Apr 7, 2023, 3:44 am
  #5694  
 
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Hello guys

I am coming to LH F after many years, going to MEX and could select 1A - I think I scored the best?
-
Anyway, I opted for 6 hour connection in FRA. Just a few things that I don't know / remember. If the plane is parked at the gate from my European connection there is no car for me. I am let into terminal and on my own to FCL or FCT. Is it worth visiting FCL or should I just not waste time and go to FCT? I know I need exit the airport and walk myself in.

As far as I know there is not any spa treatment or anything but duck gifts still available? Still have a few black ones. It has been a long time since I was in FCT, anything spectacular and not to miss on drink menu? How is the a la carte? Just want to know some details if there are any of what to not miss at all.

Drive to FCT - Often in Paris with AF we can make a little detour for "plane sightseeing" and it is not a problem to ask for BMW specifically. Is there a chance to arrange the drive to be last / first on board in specific car (I only recall Porsche with LH but something reminds me I was once in Mercedes??? van with other pax??). I'd definitely like to go alone and to be first on board as I remember PDB used to be better champagne than in the air?

I believe there will not be any escort through security in Prague, just treated like regular J pax. Anything on arrival in MEX? Golf car to immigration maybe?

Thanks in advance!
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Old Apr 7, 2023, 3:59 am
  #5695  
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Originally Posted by 747jetter
Hello guys

I am coming to LH F after many years, going to MEX and could select 1A - I think I scored the best?
-
Anyway, I opted for 6 hour connection in FRA. Just a few things that I don't know / remember. If the plane is parked at the gate from my European connection there is no car for me. I am let into terminal and on my own to FCL or FCT. Is it worth visiting FCL or should I just not waste time and go to FCT? I know I need exit the airport and walk myself in.

As far as I know there is not any spa treatment or anything but duck gifts still available? Still have a few black ones. It has been a long time since I was in FCT, anything spectacular and not to miss on drink menu? How is the a la carte? Just want to know some details if there are any of what to not miss at all.

Drive to FCT - Often in Paris with AF we can make a little detour for "plane sightseeing" and it is not a problem to ask for BMW specifically. Is there a chance to arrange the drive to be last / first on board in specific car (I only recall Porsche with LH but something reminds me I was once in Mercedes??? van with other pax??). I'd definitely like to go alone and to be first on board as I remember PDB used to be better champagne than in the air?

I believe there will not be any escort through security in Prague, just treated like regular J pax. Anything on arrival in MEX? Golf car to immigration maybe?

Thanks in advance!
1A is my preference on 748, you might as well visit FCLA & then go to FCT since you have 6 hours.

No car inbound unless an outside position.

Catering in FRA is very poor currently, compared to the past & the caterer changes on 1st May.

You can ask for a car from FCT but be prepared to go in the Van with the other MEX pax.

Ducks are available

Nothing at PRG
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Old Apr 7, 2023, 4:26 am
  #5696  
 
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Originally Posted by Fabo.sk
TLV, BEY and AMM are going to be sweet spots in M&M earning scheme starting next year, being intercontinental, unlike say CAI, TUN or EVN.

Yet flying to TLV is 4 hours in an A320 (or a 737, if taking LOT). Plus the connection, whether from AMS or BRU or whatever the case may be.

That's 26 4 hour flights in a narrowbody.
I see.
well as long as the flight is a day flight then there is nothing to worry about.
I’ve been on red eye narrobody once as I thought it will be a good idea. It wasn’t and I don’t think I will do it again.
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Old Apr 7, 2023, 6:08 am
  #5697  
 
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Day flight definitely miles better than a redeye. I still don't think euro cabin is a nice place to spend that time.
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Old Apr 7, 2023, 6:52 am
  #5698  
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Originally Posted by Fabo.sk
I still don't think euro cabin is a nice place to spend that time.
Understatement of the Month
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Old Apr 7, 2023, 7:25 am
  #5699  
 
Join Date: Jan 2011
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Originally Posted by Fabo.sk
It's still a step up from *G.
Realistically, no, I'm not doing it if it means every weekend in Tel Aviv for 3 months straight. I would, if there was a bit more variation, probably, but hey, it's the price of one intercontinental J ticket in high season.
I don't have a family or much in the way of obligations that would prevent me from doing it, if just to say I did.
(barring the high risk of reaching HON status and deciding not to set foot in a group A320 cabin for as long as the status is valid and more)
Originally Posted by Fabo.sk
TLV, BEY and AMM are going to be sweet spots in M&M earning scheme starting next year, being intercontinental, unlike say CAI, TUN or EVN.

Yet flying to TLV is 4 hours in an A320 (or a 737, if taking LOT). Plus the connection, whether from AMS or BRU or whatever the case may be.

That's 26 4 hour flights in a narrowbody.
Originally Posted by Fabo.sk
Day flight definitely miles better than a redeye. I still don't think euro cabin is a nice place to spend that time.
Thread name is: The FRA F/HON First Class Terminal FCT FAQ
Thrashing with off topic without any question about FCT as per thread continues.
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Old Apr 7, 2023, 11:51 am
  #5700  
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Originally Posted by Jaenks
You do not fly in F, not becoming HON, so leave those threads to competent HONs and regular F flyers. Enough of copy-paste wannabies! Purchase recommendation in bulk: https://www.ebay.de/itm/124833928637...Bk9SR5T5-ZfrYQ
Is that your auction? Looking at your other stuff I must say that's a pretty smart way to offset the cost of HON for a bit of paper. How did you get the LH wine glasses?
Naughty!
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