The superior high temperature oxidation resistance of FeCrAl alloys relies on the formation of a dense and continuous protective aluminium oxide layer on the alloy surface when exposed to high temperatures. Consequently, the aluminium content, i.e. the aluminium concentration at the alloy–oxide layer interface, must exceed a critical level in order to form a protective alumina layer. In the present study the oxidation behaviour of six different FeCrAl alloys with Al concentrations in the range of 1.2–5.0wt% have been characterised after oxidation at 900 8C for 72 h with respect to oxide layer surface morphology, thickness and composition using scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and Auger electron spectroscopy.The results show that a minimum of 3.2wt% Al in the FeCrAl alloy is necessary for the formation of a continuous alumina layer. For Al concentrations in the range of 2.0–3.0wt% a three-layered oxide layer is formed, i.e. an oxide layer consisting of an inner alumina-based layer, an intermediate chromia-based layer and an outer iron oxide-based layer. In contrast, the 1.2wt% Al FeCrAl alloy is not able to form a protective oxide layer inhibiting extensive oxidation.