Among the primary international major airports in Berlin, Germany known as Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER). This state-of-the-art airport has become the gateway for both international and domestic flights, replacing the historical airports of Tempelhof, Schönefeld, and Tegel.
Situated adjacent to the former Schönefeld Airport in the region of Brandenburg, it provides a modern travel experience with comprehensive facilities and transportation options, including direct train and bus connections into the city.
Berlin Brandenburg Airport operates as the main hub for air travel in the Berlin metropolitan area. It was named after Willy Brandt, a Nobel Peace Prize winner and former mayor of West Berlin and chancellor of West Germany.
With its opening, the airport has consolidated Berlin’s air traffic into one major international hub. Alongside a wide range of airlines, including both major and low-cost carriers, the airport offers extensive services including a spectrum of shops, restaurants, duty-free options, currency exchange, and car rental facilities.
BER is designed with efficiency and passenger convenience in mind, sporting multiple terminals that ease the flow of passengers and provide various amenities.
Passengers can expect to find efficient check-in services, a generous selection of retail outlets and lounges, and the capacity to handle large passenger volumes, making it a vital transport connection within Germany and Europe.
As Berlin continues to grow as an epicenter for culture, politics, and tourism, Berlin Brandenburg Airport plays a crucial role in connecting the city with the rest of the world.
History of Major Airports in Berlin
Berlin has been served by several major airports throughout its history, each playing a significant role during different periods such as the Cold War.
From the pioneering days of Tempelhof to the modern Berlin Brandenburg Airport, Berlin’s aviation history is marked by both dramatic events and significant technological advancements.
Berlin Tempelhof Airport
Tempelhof Airport, commonly referred to as THF, has a rich history dating back to its opening in 1923. It gained profound significance during the Berlin Airlift of 1948-1949, where it served as a crucial gateway for supplying West Berlin amidst Cold War tensions.
Despite its historical importance and after several decades of operations, Tempelhof was closed in 2008 and has since been transformed into a public park, preserving its legacy in a modern context.
Berlin Tegel Airport
Berlin Tegel Airport, designated as TXL, served as the primary airport for West Berlin. Opened in 1960, it took over much of the city’s air traffic post-Tempelhof. Known for its hexagonal terminal design allowing more efficient use of gates, Tegel Airport was renowned for its key role during the Cold War era.
However, as Berlin outgrew its capacity, it was eventually shut down and its operations were transferred to the newer Berlin Brandenburg Airport after its closure in November 2020.
Berlin Schönefeld Airport
Berlin Schönefeld Airport, with the IATA code SXF, originally served East Berlin and was the city’s only commercial airport on the eastern side during the Cold War.
After German reunification, Schönefeld continued operations and became an international airport.
It was known to many travelers as the base for several low-cost carriers before it ultimately became part of the expansive Berlin Brandenburg Airport complex.
Berlin Brandenburg Airport Development
The development of Berlin Brandenburg Airport, named after the former West German chancellor and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, Willy Brandt, represents a significant expansion in Berlin’s airport capacity.
This airport was planned with grand expansion plans to adequately serve the unified Berlin and the surrounding state of Brandenburg.
After many delays, it finally opened in October 2020 and consolidated the capital’s air traffic, taking over from both Tegel and Schönefeld Airports and aiming to handle the increasing passenger numbers and international flights in the region.
Airport Infrastructure and Terminals
Berlin Brandenburg Airport, known as Willy Brandt, is the main international airport serving Berlin, Germany. It is a hub for domestic and international travel with a well-designed infrastructure and a range of passenger amenities across its terminals.
Terminals Overview
Berlin Brandenburg Airport boasts two main passenger terminals, Terminals 1 and 2, which are conveniently located within walking distance of each other.
Terminal 1 is the primary facility and is shaped like the letter U, featuring a wide array of shops and restaurants that cater to a diverse group of travelers.
Terminal 2 serves to complement the larger Terminal 1, accommodating additional passengers and flights.
Transport Connections
Access to the airport is facilitated via multiple modes of public transport. The Airport Express and regional trains provide frequent service to central Berlin, with S-Bahn lines extending connectivity to other neighborhoods.
For those traveling by car, the airport is situated just south of Berlin and is directly connected to the city via the A113 motorway. Bus and taxi services are readily available at the airport, ensuring efficient transport connections for all travelers.
Parking and Car Rentals
Ample parking options are available at Berlin Brandenburg Airport, ranging from short-term to long-term parking facilities.
Those wishing to rent a car can find several reputable car rental agencies in close proximity to the terminals, providing the convenience to explore the region at their own pace.
Airlines and Destinations
Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) serves as the primary aviation hub in Berlin, Germany, hosting multiple airlines and offering a wide range of destinations.
The airport has become the main gateway for both domestic and international flights, featuring services from numerous major and budget airlines.
Major Airlines
Berlin Brandenburg Airport is home to various noteworthy airlines, playing a crucial role in connecting Berlin to several global and European destinations. Prominent airlines operating at BER include:
- Lufthansa: Flagship carrier offering extensive connections within Germany and Europe.
- EasyJet: A leading budget airline with a significant number of European routes.
- Ryanair: Another budget carrier with a wide network, especially in Europe.
- Turkish Airlines: Connecting Berlin with several destinations in Turkey and beyond.
- KLM: Dutch flagship carrier facilitating travel between Berlin and Amsterdam, and onwards.
- Eurowings: A low-cost airline offering a variety of domestic and European flights.
- Qatar Airways: Provides access to Doha and connections to Asia and Australia.
- United Airlines: Offers routes to Newark and connects Berlin to other U.S. destinations.
- British Airways: Connects Berlin with London and offers flights to other international destinations.
Flight Destinations
At Berlin Brandenburg Airport, passengers can select from a diverse range of flight destinations encompassing major cities and leisure spots around the world. Some of the destinations include:
- International Flights: Daily flights to global hubs like Doha via Qatar Airways and transatlantic flights to Newark serviced by United Airlines.
- European Flights: A broad selection of flights to European capitals and cities facilitated by airlines such as Lufthansa, EasyJet, and Ryanair.
- Charter Flights and Leisure Destinations: Seasonal charter flights to vacation spots in the Mediterranean, offered by various tour operators and specialized leisure airlines.
Airport Services and Amenities
Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) serves as the primary international airport for Berlin, Germany. As a modern transport hub, BER provides a wealth of services and amenities catered to satisfy the needs of its diverse passengers, including extensive shopping and dining options, currency exchange facilities, lounges, and business facilities.
Shopping and Dining
BER airport boasts a wide array of shops and retail outlets for travelers looking to indulge in shopping before or after their flights.
This includes high-end duty-free shops where international passengers can purchase goods without the usual taxes. The restaurants at the airport cater to various tastes, offering both local and international cuisine in a range of eateries from casual cafes to gourmet dining establishments.
- Retail Highlights
- Duty-Free Shops: Perfumes, cosmetics, alcohol, tobacco, and chocolates
- Fashion and Accessories: International brands and local designs
- Souvenirs and Gifts: Berlin-themed memorabilia and typical German products
- Dining Options
- Fast Food: Quick meals for travelers on the go
- Sit-down Restaurants: Enjoy a relaxed meal before departure
- Coffee Shops: Wide selection of coffees and light snacks
Lounge and Business Facilities
For passengers seeking a more exclusive experience, BER provides a selection of lounges that offer a quiet and comfortable space to work or relax.
The business travel experience is enhanced with facilities like charging stations, Wi-Fi, meeting rooms, and business centers. These lounges are accessible to eligible passengers based on airline, class of travel, or membership.
- Lounge Amenities
- Comfortable Seating: Designed for relaxation before flights
- Complimentary Refreshments: Snacks, drinks, and often a range of hot and cold dishes
- Workstations and Charging Points: Stay connected and productive
The airport also includes currency exchange services and streamlined check-in facilities to ensure a seamless travel experience for all passengers. Whether one is traveling for business or leisure, the facilities and services at BER are designed to provide an exceptional airport experience.
Traveler Information
Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) is the primary hub for air travel in Berlin, Germany, serving both international and regional passengers with a variety of transportation options for convenient access to and from the airport.
Public Transport Options
Berlin Brandenburg Airport is well-connected to the city through a network of public transportation. The airport is served by the Airport Express (FEX) and several regional trains, which provide swift connections to central Berlin and other destinations.
Additionally, the S-Bahn lines, S9 and S45, offer regular service to various parts of the city. The Berlin public transport authority (BVG) operates buses that also connect the airport to different localities, ensuring comprehensive coverage and travel flexibility.
Driving and Car Services
For those preferring to drive, the airport is easily accessible via the A113 motorway, which connects to Berlin’s city centre. Ample parking facilities are available at the airport, with options for both short-term and long-term stays.
Passengers can also choose from various car services, with taxi ranks located directly outside the terminals, providing a convenient means to reach any destination.
Accessibility and Passenger Support
Berlin Brandenburg Airport prioritizes accessibility, offering tailored services for passengers with reduced mobility. Clear signage and dedicated assistance points throughout the airport ensure a seamless experience for all travelers.
Passenger support services are available, including escorts through security and to the gate for those who require it. The airport’s design and infrastructure are in line with high standards of accessibility, allowing everyone to navigate the facilities with ease.
Frequently Asked Questions
Berlin has recently consolidated its air traffic into a major hub, streamlining travel into the city and offering various amenities and transportation options for travelers.
How many international airports are there in Berlin?
Berlin now has a single major international airport serving both the city and the surrounding region of Brandenburg.
What is the name of the main airport serving Berlin?
The main airport that serves as Berlin’s gateway to the world is known as Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER).
Can you provide information on how to get from Berlin Brandenburg Airport to the city center?
There are multiple transportation options from Berlin Brandenburg Airport to the city center, including trains, buses, taxis, and car rentals, ensuring a convenient transfer to your destination.
What is the airport code for Berlin Tegel Airport?
Berlin Tegel Airport, which is now closed, had the airport code TXL.
Is there a map available detailing the layout of Berlin’s major airport?
Yes, visitors can find a detailed map showing the layout and facilities of Berlin Brandenburg Airport available online and at the airport.
Does Berlin Brandenburg Airport serve as the new location for the previously operational Schoenefeld Airport?
Indeed, Berlin Brandenburg Airport has incorporated the area and infrastructure of the former Schoenefeld Airport, which accounted for a part of the new airport’s existing terminals and facilities.
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