Budapest Airport marks its 75th anniversary with year-long celebrations

Budapest Airport, officially known as Ferenc Liszt International Airport, is set to celebrate its 75th anniversary throughout 2025 with a series of cultural events, passenger engagement activities, and infrastructure developments.

Opened on May 7, 1950, the airport has grown from serving 50,000 passengers annually to welcoming the same number daily, reaching a record-breaking 17.6 million passengers in 2024.

In addition to the anniversary celebrations, Budapest Airport, part of the VINCI Airports network, is preparing for major expansion projects, including the highly anticipated Terminal 3 to accommodate future passenger growth.

Over the years, it has undergone significant transformations:

The airport was renamed in 2011 to honor Ferenc Liszt, Hungary’s world-renowned composer, on the 200th anniversary of his birth.

The renaming reflects Hungary’s commitment to cultural heritage and international recognition, much like other European airports named after historic figures, such as Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris and Leonardo da Vinci Airport in Rome.

The official anniversary date on May 7, 2025, will mark exactly 75 years since the airport first opened to the public. The celebrations, inspired by the legacy of Ferenc Liszt, will include:

While celebrating its past, Budapest Airport is also looking ahead. In response to record passenger growth, VINCI Airports has begun preparations for Terminal 3, a major expansion project aimed at enhancing passenger experience and increasing capacity.

The Hungarian Ministry for Innovation and Technology has identified airport infrastructure expansion as a key priority under the Hungary 2030 Transport Strategy, ensuring that Budapest Airport remains a leading hub in Central Europe.

The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and Hungary’s Civil Aviation Authority are overseeing regulatory approvals for these developments.

With a focus on passenger experience, infrastructure growth, and cultural engagement, Budapest Airport’s 75th-anniversary celebrations will not only honour its legacy but also set the stage for its future as a key player in European aviation.

Image Credit: Budapest Airport