The Kirchberg collective municipality is seeking stronger action over long-standing PFAS contamination around Frankfurt-Hahn Airport, where investigations are under way but no remediation timetable has been set. The pollution affects soil, waterways and fish in the Hunsrück region, while TRIWO AG, the airport operator since April 2023, remains subject to an investigation obligation inherited from the former operator.
The contamination is linked to historic use of PFAS-containing firefighting foam, including during the airport’s period as a US military installation. The Brühlbach has been described as very heavily polluted, while elevated concentrations have also been found in the Großbach, Grundbach and Hitzelbach. Fish in all three streams contained increased PFAS levels, with the highest concentrations recorded in the Hitzelbach northeast of the airport. Waters west of the airport showed comparatively low levels.
The Struktur- und Genehmigungsdirektion Nord ordered the former Flughafen Hahn GmbH to investigate soil contamination in 2018, with further orders issued in 2019. Insolvency delayed the work. After TRIWO acquired the airport, the company was informed in 2024 that the obligation remained in force. Possible measures include encapsulating the main contaminated area around the fire-training basin and permanently collecting and treating polluted groundwater and surface water.
Kirchberg mayor Peter Müller described the issue as one of public health. Local drinking-water analyses have so far found no PFAS contamination, and the relevant wells and springs are located far from the airport. Since 2026, water suppliers have been required to test drinking water for PFAS.