Berlin Brandenburg Airport, commonly referred to as BER, is Germany's primary international gateway and the main airport in Berlin. It serves as the central hub for travelers connecting across Europe, to Asia, and beyond.
The airport consolidates long-haul, short-haul, and low-cost operations under one coordinated roof, streamlining transfers and customs procedures for millions of passengers each year.
Operational Snapshot at a Glance
| Key Metric | 2023 | 2024 (YTD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Passengers | 31.7 million | 33.2 million | Recovered to near pre-pandemic levels |
| Airlines | 85 | 92 | Includes Lufthansa, Air Berlin, Eurowings, easyJet |
| Destinations | 185 | 198 | European, intercontinental, and seasonal routes |
| Terminals in Use | 1 (Terminal 1) | 1 (Terminal 1) | Terminal 5 remains closed for commercial use |
| Rail Connections | Regional (RE7, RB14) | Regional + Intercity (ICE, IC) | Flughafen BER station links to Berlin Hauptbahnhof |
Berlin Brandenburg Airport as the Main Hub
As the main airport in Berlin, BER consolidates nearly all scheduled and charter traffic previously split between Schönefeld and Tegel. The central terminal complex is designed around a single interconnected zone, making it easier to navigate arrivals, departures, and through flights.
The airport is a critical node in the European network, with high-frequency routes to Munich, Frankfurt, Hamburg, and Stuttgart, alongside dense short-haul links to cities in the Schengen area. Long-haul services connect Berlin directly to key intercontinental markets, reinforcing the airport’s role as Germany’s fourth-busiest.
Operational integration has improved reliability, with shared ground services, coordinated slot planning, and unified security zones. Travelers benefit from streamlined transfers between Schengen and non-Schengen flights, smoother customs processing, and consistent signage across the terminal.
Ground Transportation and Connectivity
BER’s location southeast of Berlin ensures strong regional rail and road links, supporting commuters, tourists, and business travelers. The station beneath the terminal delivers frequent S-Bahn, Regional-Express, and long-distance services to the city center and surrounding states.
Highway access from A113 and A117 enables flexible transfers by car, while dedicated drop-off and pick-up zones help manage traffic flow. Complementary mobility options include buses, taxis, and ride-hailing services, all coordinated through the central forecourt.
For onward journeys, integrated ticketing with Berlin’s VBB fare structure simplifies planning, allowing travelers to combine rail, bus, and shuttle transfers on single tickets purchased at the airport or via digital apps.
Infrastructure, Terminals, and Future Expansion
The main terminal at BER combines check-in, security, retail, and lounges under one continuous hall, reducing walking distances compared to the earlier multi-terminal layout at Schönefeld. The apron and remote stands support a mix of narrow-body and wide-body aircraft, with flexible gates assigned dynamically based on demand.
Planned expansions include additional pier extensions, enhanced baggage handling capacity, and upgraded airside systems to accommodate future traffic growth. Sustainability upgrades, such as improved energy efficiency and noise reduction measures, are being rolled out across the airfield and terminal zones.
These investments aim to position BER as a modern, scalable hub capable of handling increasing passenger volumes while maintaining high service standards and operational resilience.
Travel Tips and Best Practices
- Check in online at least 24 hours before departure to speed up security and boarding.
- Arrive at least 15 minutes earlier for intra-Schengen flights and 30 minutes earlier for long-haul departures.
- Use the S-Bahn or Regional-Express for predictable journey times into central Berlin.
- Download the BER official app for real-time flight updates, gate changes, and terminal maps.
- Keep travel documents and boarding passes accessible, especially when transferring between terminals.
Future Outlook for Berlin’s Main Airport
BER is positioned to remain the definitive main airport in Berlin, underpinning the city’s economic vitality and global connectivity. Continued enhancements in efficiency, passenger experience, and sustainability will shape its evolution in the coming decade.
FAQ
Reader questions
How do I reach central Berlin from BER?
Use the S-Bahn, Regional-Express, or long-distance trains from the underground station; all are covered by VBB tickets, and the ride to Berlin Hauptbahnhof typically takes 15–30 minutes.
Are low-cost carriers well-represented at BER?
Yes, carriers such as Eurowings, easyJet, and Ryanair operate multiple daily flights to European destinations, offering competitive fares and straightforward check-in options.
Is Terminal 5 expected to open for commercial flights soon?
As of current plans, Terminal 5 remains reserved for non-commercial use, with no timeline for opening regular passenger operations.
What should I know about transfers through BER if my onward flight departs within hours?
The airport is compact and well-signposted; follow the clear transfer corridors, utilize the centrally located train station, and allow buffer time for possible security or immigration checks on international connections.