Passagier vs. Fahrgast vs. Fluggast
In German, the words Passagier, Fahrgast, and Fluggast all translate to passenger. However, they are not interchangeable and their usage depends on the specific mode of transport.
Passagier
B1This is a general and somewhat formal term for a passenger. It is most commonly used for long-distance travel, especially by ship (Schiff) or airplane (Flugzeug), but can also be used for long-distance trains or buses.
Auf diesem Kreuzfahrtschiff ist Platz für über zweitausend Passagiere.
(This cruise ship has room for over two thousand passengers.)
Der letzte Passagier hat soeben das Flugzeug bestiegen.
(The last passenger has just boarded the airplane.)
Die Passagiere im Nachtzug nach Rom werden bald geweckt.
(The passengers on the night train to Rome will be woken up soon.)
Alle Passagiere müssen zur Rettungsübung an Deck kommen.
(All passengers must come to the deck for the safety drill.)
Fahrgast
A2This word is composed of fahren (to drive, travel) and Gast (guest). It specifically refers to passengers using ground transportation or local water transport. It is the standard term for public transit like buses, trams, subways, and local trains, as well as for taxis and ferries.
Ein neuer Fahrgast stieg an der Haltestelle ein.
(A new passenger got on at the bus stop.)
Bitte lassen Sie die anderen Fahrgäste zuerst aussteigen.
(Please let the other passengers get off first.)
Der Taxifahrer wartete auf seinen nächsten Fahrgast.
(The taxi driver was waiting for his next passenger.)
Der Schaffner kontrollierte die Tickets der Fahrgäste in der Straßenbahn.
(The conductor checked the tickets of the passengers in the tram.)
Die Fähre kann bis zu 150 Fahrgäste befördern.
(The ferry can transport up to 150 passengers.)
Fluggast
A2This is the most specific term. Composed of Flug (flight) and Gast (guest), it is used exclusively for passengers traveling by air (airplane, helicopter).
Jeder Fluggast darf nur ein Handgepäckstück mit an Bord nehmen.
(Each passenger is only allowed to bring one piece of carry-on luggage on board.)
Der Fluggast am Gate C23 wird gebeten, sich am Schalter zu melden.
(The passenger at gate C23 is asked to report to the counter.)
Ein verspäteter Fluggast erkundigte sich nach seinem Anschlussflug.
(A delayed passenger inquired about his connecting flight.)
Die Flugbegleiterin bot dem Fluggast ein Getränk an.
(The flight attendant offered the passenger a drink.)
Summary
To summarize: use Fluggast only for air travel. Use Fahrgast for local and regional transport like buses, trams, subways, and taxis. Use Passagier as a more general term for long-distance travel, especially on ships and planes. While you can call an airplane passenger a Passagier, Fluggast is more specific. Conversely, you would never call a bus passenger a Fluggast.