International Airport Hamburg (EDDH) IFR

Hamburg (EDDH) is highly accommodating for non-commercial general aviation, with both VFR and IFR operations routinely integrated among heavy airline traffic. ATC and ground staff are consistently described as exceptionally friendly, supportive, and professional, making even less experienced pilots feel welcome. IFR slots are no longer required in advance; flight plan submission suffices. For VFR, no slot or PPR is needed. Expect to use two tower frequencies (120.x for the CTR, 126.x for landings and departures), and be prepared to state your speed on final approach for sequencing with commercial traffic. Taxiing can be complex due to airport size; studying approach and taxi charts is recommended.

GA parking is generally assigned to Apron 2, requiring a mandatory shuttle (follow-me car) between aircraft and the GAT terminal; this transfer cannot be avoided and incurs a fee. Apron 4 may be available by request for short stops or hangar users, allowing walking access to the GAT. Sufficient tie-down points and loaner ropes are available at parking positions. Hangar space can sometimes be arranged on short notice.

Fees are on the higher side for Germany but typical for a major city airport. For a day visit or one overnight with parking and mandatory shuttle, total costs typically range from about €115 to €180 depending on duration and services used. Example: landing, handling, parking, and shuttle about €140–€180 for one night; hangar plus 46h parking about €250. The shuttle between Apron 2 and GAT is around €20–€60 round trip depending on routing; this fee is unavoidable when parked on Apron 2. Billing is handled via Aerops.

Fueling is efficient with quick response from fuel trucks; payment is accepted by BP/AirBP card or cash only—credit cards are not accepted for fuel. The Café Himmelsschreiber at the GAT offers meals with runway views.

Ground transport options from the GAT to Hamburg city include a 30-minute walk to the main terminal for S-Bahn access or arranging a taxi via GAT staff; they are happy to call one for you. Public transport connections (bus/S-Bahn) are available within walking distance (5–30 minutes depending on route). Car sharing services operate nearby but may require a short walk.

No customs pre-notification is required; immigration services are available at the GAT terminal if needed. No handling agent is required for GA flights.

Overall, EDDH offers efficient integration of GA into a busy commercial environment with high service standards, though at premium fees typical of large international airports. Procedures vary; see AIP/NOTAM.