Budapest Airport concerned: Major traffic and public transport changes in Budapest due to renovations + MAP

Budapest is set to experience significant changes in traffic and public transport as major renovation projects commence at Liszt Ferenc International Airport (Budapest Airport) and Flórián Square. These developments will impact both motorists and commuters, requiring adjustments in travel plans over the coming months.

Changes at Budapest Airport

As part of an ongoing airport development program, renovation work has begun on the bridge leading to Terminal 2 of Liszt Ferenc International Airport, as well as the pick-up and drop-off area in front of the terminal, Turizmus.com reports. Due to these works, several traffic changes will be in effect starting 20 February, affecting both private vehicles and public transportation.

Key changes include:

• Private vehicles will no longer have access to the departure level (upper level) of the terminal.
• The pick-up and drop-off area on the arrival level (lower level) will be reduced in size.
• Passengers arriving by car are advised to use the Terminal Parking (marked with green signs) or the City Break Parking (marked with purple signs).
• The final stop of the 100E airport bus will be relocated to the outer curve of the arrival level until June 2025. However, the 200E bus will continue to stop at its usual location.
• Buses not operated by the Budapest Transport Centre (BKK) will no longer have access to the departure level and must use the Bus Terminal instead.
• Parking for passengers with reduced mobility will be available on the arrival level during the renovation period.

The airport authorities have urged travellers to approach the area with extra caution, follow updated road signs, and allow additional time for their journeys. Passengers are also encouraged to check for updates regarding ongoing construction.

Flórián Square flyover renovation

Another major infrastructure project is the renovation of the Flórián Square flyovers, set to cause significant disruptions in Budapest’s transportation network. Beginning 1 March, the southern flyover will be closed, impacting both private vehicles and public transportation, BKK reports. The renovation is expected to last until spring 2026.

During the first phase of renovations (expected to last until autumn 2024), the following changes will take effect:

• Car traffic will be rerouted to the northern flyover, with only one lane available in each direction.
• A new two-lane turnaround will be introduced at Pacsirtamező Street for vehicles heading toward Árpád Bridge and Pest from Szentendrei Road.
• Buses arriving from North Buda, including routes 34, 106, 118, and 134 (as well as night routes 901 and 918), will follow a modified route and timetable.
• Passengers travelling toward Pest on buses 34 and 106 can transfer to tram line 1 at Flórián Square.
• Tram lines 1 and 1A will continue to operate under the flyover, with service interruptions expected only during school holidays when bus replacements will be provided.

Public transport alternatives and recommendations

To mitigate the impact of these changes, BKK recommends using alternative routes:

• Tram lines 1 and 1A will run more frequently during peak hours to accommodate increased passenger demand.
• Commuters from Békásmegyer heading downtown are encouraged to use the H5 suburban railway (HÉV), which connects to tram lines 4 and 6 at Margit Bridge and metro line M2 at Batthyány Square.
• Suburban rail services remain a viable alternative for those travelling from the outskirts of the city.

Authorities stress that these renovations are essential to ensure long-term safety and efficiency in Budapest’s transportation infrastructure. While disruptions are inevitable, travellers are encouraged to plan their routes in advance and allow for extra travel time during the construction periods.

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