Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) Overview
Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER), also known as Flughafen Berlin Brandenburg, is the primary international gateway serving the capital city of Germany. Opened in 2020, BER replaced the city's former Tegel and Schönefeld airports, consolidating Berlin's air traffic into a modern, efficient hub. The airport is located in Schönefeld, roughly 18 kilometers southeast of Berlin’s city center, making it easily accessible for both international and domestic travelers.
BER is designed to accommodate over 40 million passengers annually, featuring state-of-the-art facilities and a spacious, contemporary terminal complex. The airport is an important hub for both leisure and business travel, offering a wide range of destinations throughout Europe and intercontinental routes. Travelers at BER benefit from a selection of shops, restaurants, lounges, and comprehensive passenger services. The airport’s location also makes it a convenient gateway to nearby cities such as Potsdam and Cottbus.
Air Traffic Ranking
Berlin Brandenburg Airport ranks among the top 15 busiest airports in Europe by passenger volume and is one of the largest in Germany. On a global scale, BER stands within the top 100 busiest airports, reflecting its growing significance as a major European air travel hub.
Top Airlines Operating at BER
Local Time Zone
Berlin Brandenburg Airport operates in the Central European Time Zone (CET, UTC +1) and observes Daylight Saving Time (CEST, UTC +2) during the summer months.
Distance to City Center
BER is situated approximately 18 kilometers (11 miles) from Berlin’s central district, Alexanderplatz.
Nearby Areas and Closest City Centers
In addition to central Berlin, the airport is conveniently located for travelers heading to nearby cities such as Potsdam (35 km), Königs Wusterhausen (15 km), and Cottbus (110 km). The airport’s proximity to these city centers makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the region.
Transportation from BER to Berlin City Center
- Regional Trains (S-Bahn, RE, RB): Direct S-Bahn lines (S9, S45) and regional trains (RE7, RB14) connect the airport to Berlin Hauptbahnhof and other major stations in under 30 minutes.
- Airport Express: The FEX (Flughafen-Express) offers fast, frequent service to Berlin’s main train station.
- Buses: Several public bus routes link BER with various Berlin neighborhoods and surrounding regions.
- Taxis: Taxi stands are available outside the terminal, with a typical ride to the city center taking 35–45 minutes.
- Car Rentals and Ride-Sharing: Multiple international car rental agencies and ride-sharing services operate at the airport.
Terminal Information
Berlin Brandenburg Airport consists of three terminals: Terminal 1, Terminal 2, and Terminal 5 (the former Schönefeld terminal). Terminal 1 serves as the main terminal, hosting most full-service and international airlines, including Lufthansa, United Airlines, British Airways, and Qatar Airways. Terminal 2 is primarily used by low-cost carriers such as easyJet and KLM. Terminal 5, the former Schönefeld Airport, is currently only used for select charter and seasonal flights.
Each terminal is equipped with comprehensive passenger services, including check-in counters, security, baggage claim, lounges, and retail and dining options.
Official Airport Website
For the latest information on flights, services, and facilities, visit the official Berlin Brandenburg Airport website.
Your Air Passenger Rights at Berlin Brandenburg Airport
If your flight from Berlin Brandenburg Airport was delayed, cancelled, or overbooked, you may be entitled to compensation under EU Regulation 261/2004 (EU 261/EC 261). This regulation applies to all flights departing from an EU airport, including BER, regardless of the airline’s nationality. It also covers flights arriving at BER from outside the EU if operated by an EU-based airline.
Under EU 261, passengers may claim compensation when their flight is delayed by more than three hours, cancelled without adequate notice, or they are denied boarding due to overbooking. The amount of compensation depends on the flight distance:
- For flights up to 1,500 km: €250 per passenger
- For flights between 1,500 km and 3,500 km: €400 per passenger
- For flights over 3,500 km: €600 per passenger
Compensation eligibility requires that the disruption was not caused by extraordinary circumstances, such as severe weather, political instability, or air traffic control strikes. Airlines are also required to provide care (meals, refreshments, accommodation if necessary) during long delays or overnight stays.
To qualify for compensation under EU 261 at Berlin Brandenburg Airport:
- Your flight must have departed from an EU airport (such as BER), regardless of airline nationality.
- Or, your flight must have arrived at BER from a non-EU country, operated by an EU airline.
If your flight was delayed or cancelled at BER, gather your booking details, boarding pass, and any communication with the airline. Check your eligibility for compensation and consider submitting your claim as soon as possible.
How Voos Can Assist with Your Compensation Claim
If you have experienced a delayed or cancelled flight from Berlin Brandenburg Airport, Voos can review your case and, if eligible, pursue compensation from the airline on your behalf. Our service is risk-free – fees are only charged if your claim is successful. Depending on your specific situation, compensation of up to €600 per person may be possible.
- Gather your flight number and booking details
- Keep your boarding pass or e-ticket
- Document all communications with the airline
- Check your eligibility for compensation today
Don’t let flight disruptions at Berlin Brandenburg Airport go uncompensated. EU 261/EC 261 ensures your rights as an air passenger, and Voos is here to help you claim what you’re owed.
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