If you’re planning a trip to Berlin, Germany, you may be wondering where exactly you will land when you fly into the city. Berlin, a vibrant and historical metropolis, offers both international and domestic flights through several airports. In this article, we’ll guide you through the main airports you could land at when flying to Berlin, Germany, and provide some insights into what you can expect upon arrival. Understanding where you’ll land is key for a smooth transition from your flight to exploring the city.
Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER): The Main International Gateway
Berlin Brandenburg Airport (Flughafen Berlin Brandenburg), abbreviated as BER, is the main airport serving Berlin. It officially opened on October 31, 2020, after many years of delays. Located about 18 kilometers (11 miles) south of the city center, BER serves as the primary hub for both domestic and international flights to Berlin.
BER replaced the city’s two former airports—Tegel (TXL) and Schönefeld (SXF)—with a modern, state-of-the-art terminal designed to accommodate the growing number of travelers visiting the German capital. With the expansion and improvements of this airport, it has become one of the most significant transportation hubs in Europe. So, if you’re flying to Berlin from any major city around the world, it’s highly likely that you will land at Berlin Brandenburg Airport.
Facilities at BER
Berlin Brandenburg Airport is well-equipped to ensure a smooth travel experience. With numerous amenities, including baggage claim areas, check-in counters, duty-free shopping, and various restaurants, you’ll have plenty of options to relax and refuel after your flight. The airport also offers excellent public transportation connections to central Berlin, such as trains, buses, and taxis, ensuring you can reach your accommodation or destination in no time.
What Airlines Operate at Berlin Brandenburg?
Most international and domestic airlines that fly to Germany operate at Berlin Brandenburg Airport. Airlines such as Lufthansa, Ryanair, easyJet, and Air France use BER as one of their major hubs. Passengers flying from cities across Europe, North America, Asia, and the Middle East will likely find themselves landing here.
How to Get to Central Berlin from BER?
Upon arriving at BER, you have several transportation options to get to the city center of Berlin. The most convenient and cost-effective method is by using the train services. The S-Bahn (S9, S45) and regional trains (RE7, RE8) connect the airport with central Berlin, with travel times ranging from 30 to 45 minutes. Alternatively, taxis and buses are readily available at the airport and can take you directly to your hotel or other points of interest in the city.
Alternative: Berlin Tegel Airport (TXL)
Before the opening of Berlin Brandenburg Airport, Tegel Airport (TXL) was the primary international gateway for travelers flying into Berlin. Though the airport was officially closed in 2020 with the opening of BER, it’s still a point of reference for many people who remember their trips to Berlin pre-BER.
Tegel was a popular airport for both domestic and international flights, particularly for those flying into Berlin from European cities. It was located around 8 kilometers (5 miles) from the city center and offered a relatively quick and easy journey into the heart of Berlin.
The Legacy of Berlin Tegel
Tegel was an iconic symbol of Berlin’s aviation history. The airport was designed to be compact, with a hexagonal terminal structure that allowed for quick and efficient access to flights. It also had a distinctive appearance, which made it an architectural landmark. Many travelers have fond memories of their time at Tegel before the transition to the new airport.
The Impact of Berlin Tegel’s Closure
With the closing of Tegel Airport, all commercial flights have been redirected to Berlin Brandenburg Airport. However, some travelers may still be curious about the now-closed terminal or may have previously arrived at Berlin Tegel. The legacy of the airport is preserved in the memories of countless travelers, but today, all flights now go through the updated and expanded BER.
Berlin Schönefeld Airport (SXF) – The Predecessor to BER
Another airport that once served Berlin was Schönefeld (SXF), located in the southeastern part of the city. Like Tegel, Schönefeld was phased out when Berlin Brandenburg Airport opened, as it was absorbed into the new terminal complex. For many years, Schönefeld was the primary airport for low-cost carriers, with Ryanair and easyJet using it as a base for their operations.
Schönefeld’s terminal became part of the new BER complex, meaning that flights which would have previously landed in Schönefeld now land at the same airport under the updated BER infrastructure.
The Transformation of Schönefeld into BER
The transition of Schönefeld to become part of BER was an important step in modernizing Berlin’s airport system. The facility was upgraded to accommodate both domestic and international flights and now serves as a key area for low-cost carriers operating in and out of the city. While Schönefeld itself no longer exists as a standalone airport, its legacy continues as part of the larger Berlin Brandenburg Airport.
What About Smaller Airports Near Berlin?
While Berlin Brandenburg is the primary airport for travelers flying into the German capital, there are also smaller airports located near the city that may be of interest to those looking for alternative travel options. For example, airports in neighboring cities such as Leipzig and Dresden may serve as a potential landing spot for travelers who are flying into Berlin but are willing to take a train or other transport to reach the city.
However, these smaller airports are not typically used for international flights, and it is far more likely that your flight to Berlin will land at Berlin Brandenburg Airport. Still, it is worth considering other travel options if you’re flying from a smaller city or country.
Why You Should Choose Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) for Your Flight to Berlin
If you’re still wondering where you would land if you fly to Berlin, the most accurate answer is Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER). This modern and fully equipped airport is designed to meet the needs of travelers from around the world and offers everything you need for a smooth arrival.
Whether you’re arriving for business, pleasure, or to explore Berlin’s rich history and culture, BER offers excellent connectivity and a streamlined travel experience. Once you land at BER, you’ll have easy access to the city and can begin your adventure right away. From its state-of-the-art facilities to its accessibility to the city, Berlin Brandenburg Airport has become a significant gateway for global travelers heading to Berlin, Germany.
Conclusion: Your Arrival in Berlin
So, if you’re planning to visit Berlin, Germany, there’s a high chance that you will land at Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER). This modern and efficient airport is now the main international gateway to Berlin, offering numerous facilities to make your arrival as smooth as possible. Although you might still have memories of Tegel or Schönefeld, it’s the new Berlin Brandenburg Airport that will likely be your landing spot as you begin your adventure in this fascinating city. Safe travels and enjoy your time in Berlin!
