Budapest’s International Airport Celebrates 75th Anniversary
In 2025, Budapest’s Liszt Ferenc International Airport celebrates its 75th anniversary, marking a significant milestone in the history of Hungarian aviation and the city’s gateway to the world. Originally opened on May 7, 1950, as Budapest Ferihegy International Airport, this iconic transport hub has evolved dramatically over the decades, mirroring Hungary’s own transformation and growth.
From Humble Beginnings to International Gateway
When the airport first opened its doors to travelers on May 7, 1950, it was a modest facility known simply as “Ferihegy,” named after the surrounding area. At that time, the airport operated with just one terminal and a single runway, welcoming around 50,000 passengers annually—a number that today equals the airport’s daily passenger traffic.
Over the decades, Budapest Airport has undergone significant expansions and developments in response to steadily increasing passenger numbers. Milestones such as extending the first runway and expanding Terminal 1 were soon followed by the construction of a second runway and an air traffic control tower. Later came Terminal 2, significantly enhancing the airport’s capacity and service quality. Today, preparations are already underway for Terminal 3, reflecting continuous growth and improvement.
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In 2024 alone, Liszt Ferenc International Airport reached an unprecedented milestone by serving over 17.6 million passengers—a remarkable figure that highlights its importance as Hungary’s primary international gateway.
A fascinating historical note about the airport’s original name: it derives from a local entrepreneur named Ferenc (“Feri”), who once leased land between Vecsés and Rákoshegy to cultivate vineyards. His popularity among locals led them to affectionately name this area “Ferihegy,” a term still fondly remembered by many today.
Honoring Hungarian Culture: The Naming of Liszt Ferenc International Airport
More than half a century after its inauguration, Budapest’s main airport underwent a significant rebranding in 2011. Coinciding with the bicentenary of Franz Liszt’s birth—Hungary’s world-renowned composer—the Hungarian Parliament decided to rename Ferihegy Airport as Liszt Ferenc International Airport. This decision was made not only to honor one of Europe’s most celebrated composers but also to highlight Hungary’s rich cultural heritage internationally.
Liszt Ferenc was not only an extraordinary composer but also an avid traveler who visited nearly every major European city during his lifetime. His legacy symbolizes a connection between cultures through music and travel alike—a fitting inspiration for an international airport that serves as Hungary’s gateway to the world.
Celebrating 75 Years: A Year-Long Tribute in 2025
To commemorate its remarkable journey spanning three-quarters of a century, Budapest Airport has planned an extensive series of events throughout 2025. These celebrations will prominently feature Liszt Ferenc himself, highlighting both his musical genius and his adventurous spirit.
Visitors arriving at or departing from Budapest this year will experience numerous engaging activities at terminals and online platforms dedicated to celebrating this dual anniversary: the airport’s 75th birthday and another significant cultural milestone—the 175th anniversary of one of Liszt’s most beloved compositions, “Liebesträume” (Dreams of Love).
The festivities aim not only to entertain but also to educate visitors about Hungary’s rich cultural heritage through interactive exhibits, musical performances, artistic installations, and special events inspired by Liszt Ferenc’s life and works.
Preserving Heritage Through Travel Experiences
Francois Berisot, CEO of Budapest Airport under VINCI Airports network management, emphasizes their commitment to preserving unique national traditions within their global network. He expressed excitement about unveiling detailed plans for this year-long celebration designed specifically around Liszt Ferenc’s legacy. According to Berisot, maintaining high standards while embracing meaningful developments remains central to their mission—ensuring both Hungarian citizens and international visitors benefit from ongoing improvements at this crucial transport hub.
For tourists planning trips to Budapest in 2025, this anniversary offers unique opportunities beyond typical sightseeing experiences; it provides a chance to engage deeply with Hungary’s rich cultural heritage right upon arrival or departure through engaging events inspired by music history intertwined with modern aviation excellence.
Whether you’re arriving or departing through Liszt Ferenc International Airport during your visit to Budapest in 2025—be sure not just pass through quickly but take time exploring these special commemorative events celebrating music, travel heritage—and above all—the vibrant spirit connecting people across borders for generations past—and those yet ahead.
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