Liszt Ferenc Airport at a Glance

Budapest Airport is the main aviation hub of Hungary. Located 24km / 14.9 miles southeast of Budapest city center, in the Ferihegy area, it serves international, domestic, full-service, low-cost, and local airlines.

The airport’s footprint was significantly reduced after 2012, when Malév Hungarian Airlines, once the dominant carrier at Budapest Airport, declared bankruptcy. This led to operational cutbacks and the closure of Terminal 1. The COVID-19 pandemic further affected airport operations.

Today, the airport has fully recovered. In 2024, Budapest Airport handled 17,574,413 passengers. Currently, only Terminal 2 is operational, while Terminal 1 remains closed.

The official name of the airport is Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport, honoring the famous Hungarian composer Franz Liszt. Until 2011, it was known as Budapest Ferihegy International Airport, named after the surrounding district. The name “Ferihegy Airport” is still commonly used by locals.

Airport Information

  • Airport Name: Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport
  • IATA Code: BUD
  • ICAO Code: LHBP
  • Location: Budapest, Hungary
  • Time Zone: Central European Time (GMT+1)

Budapest Airport History

Budapest Airport’s history dates back to the late 1930s. Prior to its construction, Budaörs Airport served as Hungary’s main airport but could not be expanded due to surrounding hills and limited runway length.

In 1938, the decision was made to build a new airport serving both military and civil aviation. Construction began in 1939 under architect Károly Dávid Jr., who designed the terminal to resemble an aircraft when viewed from above.

The airport officially opened in 1943 and was rebuilt as a civilian airport in 1947. Commercial operations began in 1950, initially serving a small number of international destinations. With the establishment of Malév Airlines in 1954, the airport’s traffic steadily increased.

Terminal 2 was opened in 1985 to accommodate rising passenger numbers, followed by Terminal 2B in 1997. In 2011, the SkyCourt was inaugurated, connecting T2A and T2B and centralizing security, shopping, and dining areas.

After Malév’s collapse in 2012, several airlines expanded operations at BUD, including Lufthansa, Ryanair, Wizz Air, and Aegean Airlines. On June 6, 2024, Budapest Airport was acquired by the Hungarian government (80%) and Vinci Airports (20%).

Airport Layout

Budapest Airport consists of two terminal buildings, T1 and T2. However, only Terminal 2 is currently operational. Terminal 2 is divided into two sections:

  • T2A: Schengen flights
  • T2B: Non-Schengen flights

Both sections are connected by the SkyCourt, a five-story complex housing most shops, restaurants, and airport lounges.

Flights to and from Budapest Airport

Budapest Airport serves destinations across Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and North America. It is the main hub for Wizz Air, a hub for Smartwings Hungary, and a major base for Ryanair.

  • Domestic Departures & Arrivals
  • International Departures & Arrivals

Connecting Passengers

Passengers with a boarding pass should proceed directly to their departure gate. Passport control and security checks depend on destination country.

Passengers without a boarding pass must collect their luggage, exit the transit area, and check in at Departures (Level 1). Self-service kiosks and baggage drop-off points are available.

Required Travel Documents

  • Boarding pass
  • ID or passport
  • Visa (if required)
  • Health or vaccination documents (for specific destinations)

Luggage Rules

Checked baggage policies vary by airline and fare type. Carry-on baggage is subject to size, weight, and liquid restrictions. Always verify airline-specific regulations.

Services and Amenities

  • Baggage wrapping and luggage storage
  • Medical services and pharmacies
  • ATMs, banks, and currency exchange
  • Lost & Found offices
  • Prayer room / Room of Silence
  • Visitor terrace and gallery
  • Airport lounges and spa
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Information desks and travel agencies

Family Services

Budapest Airport provides nursing rooms, family restrooms, free strollers, and children’s play areas. Dedicated kids’ zones are located in SkyCourt and Pier 1.

Accessibility

Budapest Airport is fully accessible for passengers with reduced mobility. Assistance services are provided free of charge, and accessible restrooms, elevators, and parking areas are available throughout the terminal.

Pet Services

Pets are welcome at Budapest Airport provided they have proper documentation. Dogs must be on a leash and may be required to wear a muzzle. Additional airline-specific rules may apply.

Transit Options

  • Airport taxis
  • Public buses
  • Train via Ferihegy Station (bus connection required)
  • Car rentals
  • Private airport transfers

Parking Facilities

Budapest Airport offers short-term and long-term parking options, including Terminal Parking, Premium Parking, City Break Parking, Holiday Parking, and Smart Parking.

Official Contact Information

  • Address: 1185 Budapest, BUD Nemzetközi Repülőtér
  • Phone: +36 (1) 296-7000
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Website: https://www.bud.hu/en

The City of Budapest

Budapest is one of Europe’s most popular destinations. Divided by the Danube River into Buda and Pest, the city is famous for its historic landmarks, thermal baths, vibrant culinary scene, museums, and lively nightlife. Whether you are a culture enthusiast, foodie, or wellness traveler, Budapest offers something for everyone.