Cologne/Bonn Airport in chaos: flight cancellations and long waiting times!

Cologne/Bonn Airport in chaos: flight cancellations and long waiting times!

Today, June 21, 2025, Cologne/Bonn Airport is struggling with considerable difficulties. An acute staff shortage means that numerous flights have been canceled and passengers have to expect delays in check-in and security checks. As tonight.de reports, today, among other things, the departure at 1:20 p.m. to Istanbul-Sabiha Gökcen (PC 1012) and the arrival at 12:10 p.m Istanbul-Sabiha Gokcen (PC 1011).

There have been similar problems in the past, and the Verdi union's warning strike on March 14, 2024 also led to widespread cancellations and rerouting. At the time, very few flights were able to take off normally, while cargo traffic was particularly affected, while passenger flights remained largely unaffected. The last warning strike on February 20, 2024 affected Lufthansa ground staff and also had an impact on Cologne/Bonn Airport.

Tips for travelers

Anyone traveling at Cologne/Bonn Airport now should prepare well. Long waiting times have been the order of the day since the summer of 2022, and according to 24rhein.de there is currently no fast lane available. Passengers are encouraged to arrive at the airport at least 2.5 to 3 hours before departure. It is advisable to pay attention to announcements and display boards as departure gates can change at short notice.

A few simple tips can help shorten the time at the security checkpoint:

• Vermeiden Sie Flüssigkeiten über 100 ml im Handgepäck.
• Elektronische Geräte sollten oben im Handgepäck verstaut sein.
• Kleine Gegenstände lassen sich vor der Kontrolle verstauen.
• Bring Sie möglichst leere Getränkeflaschen mit oder verzichten darauf.

There are numerous options available to you when it comes to getting there; Bus and train go directly to the airport. The ICE stop in the middle of the airport and the KVB line 7 from Cologne are particularly practical.

What to do if flights are canceled?

If your flight has been canceled, you have several options. According to verbraucherzentrale.de you can request a replacement flight. Please note that this may result in later flight dates if there are no available seats. The airline will then also have to pay for support services such as meals and possibly hotel accommodation if waiting times are extended.

A refund of the ticket price also remains an option if you no longer wish to fly. Document all costs incurred so that you can claim them back if necessary.

Overall, travelers in Cologne-Bonn should be vigilant and well prepared. The current difficulties at the airport are not unknown, but with timely information and good planning you can start your vacation stress-free.