Changing Planes In Frankfurt

It is just enough time assuming there is no delay.

"could it work?" is not the same question as "will it likely work?" Flights across the Atlantic are pretty full these days so the odds of quickly finding you another flight should there be a connection problem are not great. More than likely you'd end up on a flight to somewhere in the US (Chicago, Detroit, etc) with a few hours to kill before the next flight to SFO. If you're ok with that if it happens then go for it. Personally, I'd rather cool my heels 2-3 hours in Frankfurt, but others happily do it the other way.

Other factor: Where will the planes be? They may not gate but be on the tarmac. If incoming, you will wait until the bus is full, it then has to get to the bus entry on the side of the B concourse opposite from A. Your outgoing gate could be well over 3/4 mile at the end of the A concourse. If your outgoing flight is not at the gate but being bused to the filed, you may well find the gate is closed earlier than expected time. You also have to go through exit passport control on your way. If your first flight is timely and you are a decent walker then this can be done, but do not expect to stop for food or bathroom.

One more speed bump: Flights to the USA often require extra security processing at the departure date. And many carriers want passengers in their seats early and close the door well before the announced takeoff time. So step lively and do not pause at duty-free.

Thanks for your good advice. In my haste to book an award flight (it was the only day any were available in almost a 2 week period) I booked the flight with the 1:05 change time. This morning I was able to change it to a flight with a 2:50 change time. My aunt will have to get up pretty early to get me to the airport for a flight that leaves at 6:40 a.m., but I'm sure she won't mind. :-)

Ms Jo, I thought about just departing from Frankfurt like I did last year, but this way saves me a night in a hotel. Jim will be heading home a week before I do. If I don't go to Lithuania with my cousins I should have some time during my last week. Maybe we can meet up somewhere and have a June meeting? We can check Rick's itinerary and see where he will be. I'm sure he'd like to join us. ;-)

I wouldn't fret over the security check at the gate. We've been through it several times, and it never took more than a minute. Of course, it probably helps that we're two little old people, who don't look like any sort of terrorist threats. However, I do believe I'm remembering correctly that once, because of the location of our landing gate, we actually had to go back through the regular security screening. The longer layover seems like a smart move to me.

Andrea,

Although Frankfurt is a very large airport, I've always found that it's well organized and efficient. As both your flights are with Lufthansa, you may find that your arrival and departure terminals are not too far apart.

I find Frankfurt to be an extremely well-run and efficient airport, I choose it every time I get a chance. Almost 3 hours is a much better bet and always works for me--gives me time to visit the Heberer stand for a coffee and pastry, and the Pocket Shop (described on the website as "specialty for bookworm") because I love European editions of books and they have a big selection. It's a small thing but it makes me really happy to buy a book there going over and coming back.