The New Berlin Airport Finally Opens

After nearly 15 years of construction delays, the long-anticipated Berlin Brandenburg Airport has finally started operations. Named after German politician Willy Brandt, the airport lies about 27 km (16.7 miles) south of Berlin’s city center, in the state of Brandenburg.

Work on the new airport began back in 2006, with an initial completion target set for 2011. However, repeated setbacks postponed the inauguration until October 31, 2020. The project was intended to consolidate Berlin’s air traffic by replacing Schönefeld, Tegel, and Tempelhof airports. Tempelhof was shut down in 2008, while Tegel saw its final flight on November 8, 2020. Schönefeld was supposed to remain active until 2025 as part of BER, but it has already been permanently closed. Currently, the airport features two terminals and two runways, with future plans for additional terminals and a satellite building.

Berlin Brandenburg is designed to handle 35–40 million travelers annually, aiming to become one of Europe’s busiest hubs. By 2022, it had already climbed to the third busiest airport in Germany and one of the top 15 in Europe. Passenger traffic doubled from 9.95 million in 2021 to 19.85 million in 2022, showing rapid growth.

Transportation Options

Passengers at BER can choose among several transfer options: public transit, buses, airport taxis, private transfers, or rental cars, ensuring smooth connections to Berlin and beyond.

Berlin Brandenburg Airport Information

  • Airport Name: Berlin Brandenburg Airport (Willy Brandt)
  • IATA Code: BER
  • ICAO Code: EDDB
  • Location: Schönefeld, Germany
  • Time Zone: Central European Time (GMT+1)
  • Map: View on Google Maps

Airport Layout

Berlin Brandenburg Airport currently has two terminals. The main Terminal 1, shaped like a U, manages most of the airport’s traffic and hosts a wide range of passenger services, including one of the two on-site airport hotels. Right next to it is Terminal 2, which is smaller but located within walking distance of T1.

About

Airlines at Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER)

Berlin Brandenburg Airport is now the third busiest aviation hub in Germany, welcoming a wide range of airlines and routes. Both full-service and low-cost carriers operate here, linking Berlin to major European destinations as well as several long-haul international connections.

In addition to serving dozens of global airlines, BER Airport also functions as a base for Eurowings and Ryanair. Furthermore, it is listed as a focus city for easyJet and Sundair, making it a significant point in their networks.

Thanks to its wide variety of domestic and international services, passengers at Berlin Brandenburg can choose among numerous destinations, whether traveling for business or leisure.

Parking at Berlin Brandenburg Airport

Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) offers a total of 10,000 parking spaces, fully covering the needs of its passengers. Each terminal has its own designated parking areas, suitable for both short-term and long-term stays.

Overall, Terminals 1 and 2 feature eight car parks in total. Travelers can choose between quick-stop zones for short visits or multi-day facilities ideal for extended trips. Additionally, a convenient “Kiss & Fly” area is available for fast passenger drop-offs and pick-ups right in front of the terminal buildings.

Transit Options

Berlin Brandenburg Airport is adequately connected to downtown and to various other parts of Berlin. Hence, passengers wishing to travel from BER Airport to the city center can pick one of the following transit options:

  • an airport taxi
  • a Berlin airport transfer
  • a car rental
  • a bus ride
  • a train line

Services and Amenities at Berlin Brandenburg Airport

Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) provides a wide range of services and facilities, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for all travelers. Some of the key amenities include:

  • Extensive shopping areas and duty-free stores

  • Restaurants, cafés, and bars

  • Baggage wrapping and storage services

  • Conference and meeting rooms

  • Pharmacies and medical assistance

  • Banks, ATMs, and currency exchange

  • Family-friendly spaces, including nursing rooms and kids’ play zones

  • Lost & Found counters

  • Cultural exhibitions and attractions

  • A quiet Room of Silence for relaxation

  • Lounges and spa services

  • On-site airport hotels

  • Free Wi-Fi access

  • Travel agencies and tour operators

  • Information desks

  • Dedicated services for passengers with reduced mobility

Contact Information

Official Name: Berlin Brandenburg Airport “Willy Brandt”
Address: Willy-Brandt-Platz 1, 12529 Berlin, Germany
Phone: +49 30 6091 6091 0 (daily 08:00 – 20:00)
Website: ber.berlin-airport.de

The City of Berlin

Berlin, the capital of Germany, is one of Europe’s most diverse and vibrant cities. Famous for its cultural richness and historic landmarks, the city attracts millions of visitors every year. Highlights include the Brandenburg Gate, the Berlin Wall, and the Museum Island complex with its world-class museums. Beyond history and culture, Berlin offers vast green spaces, lively neighborhoods, and a flourishing food scene featuring both local German specialties and international cuisine. Music, art, and festivals further make Berlin a destination that blends tradition with modern creativity.