Cologne Bonn Airport starts security checkpoint modernisation

Cologne Bonn Airport is completely redesigning and modernising the Terminal 1 security checkpoint. This includes equipping all security lanes with state-of-the-art CT technology as part of the renovation. At the same time, the entire area is getting a fresh design and innovative layout. With these measures, the airport aims to take travel comfort and the quality of the passenger experience to a new level. The installation of the lanes and the conversion to CT technology will be completed by next summer.

“The safety of our passengers, employees and visitors is always our top priority,” said Thilo Schmid, Chairman of the Management Board of Flughafen Köln/Bonn GmbH. “At the same time, we are investing in a new security checkpoint for passengers, which will be one of the most modern facilities in Europe. The investment of around €25 million offers tangible added value for passengers at our airport: thanks to the new technology and the new ambience, processes will be more convenient and the travel experience even more pleasant. This also strengthens the attractiveness of the location and our competitive position.”

The initial preparatory work for the security checkpoint renovation has already been carried out. With the start of the winter flight schedule, the actual renovation has now begun, which will take place in several construction phases while operations continue.

The first new security lanes with state-of-the-art CT technology are scheduled to go into operation at the beginning of 2026. By the summer, the entire facility will be equipped with a total of 11 lanes and will be fully state-of-the-art. The scanners will mean that passengers will no longer have to remove liquids and electronic devices such as laptops from their hand luggage during security checks – a significant improvement in convenience. The modification will also create the conditions for allowing passengers to carry up to two litres of liquid in future, once the work has been completed next year, as permitted by EU regulations.

“With the renovation of the security checkpoint, we are specifically promoting the further optimisation of processes to make the stay at our airport, from entering the terminals to boarding the aircraft, smooth and stress-free for travellers,” said Cenk Özöztürk, Managing Director, Flughafen Köln/Bonn GmbH. “In this way, we are creating a service that ideally combines security and comfort, and are consistently continuing on the path towards an increasingly digital airport world. This also includes, for example, the continuous expansion of modern self-bag drop stations and the digital twin of our airport, which we use to test new technologies and processes in advance.”

The airport is investing around €25 million in the redesign of the security checkpoint, which is part of the comprehensive ‘Next Chapter’ modernisation programme. This is gradually giving the terminals a new look, with modern catering units, redesigned lounge areas with new furniture, the reopening of the hand luggage exit, the conversion of the arrival and departure areas, the expansion of digital services, and much more.