Berlin, September 7, 2026 – The long-discussed extension of Berlin’s U7 subway line from Rudow to Schönefeld and the Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) is gaining renewed political momentum. The city is linking the realization of this crucial infrastructure project to a potential joint Expo 2035 bid with Brandenburg, with the U7 connection being a key prerequisite for the proposed exhibition grounds in Schönefeld.
U7 Extension: A Decades-Long Vision Nears Political Crossroads
The U7 line currently terminates at Rudow station in Berlin-Neukölln. The proposed extension would span approximately eight kilometers, crossing the state border into Schönefeld and continuing to BER Airport. A 2020 feasibility study by BVG confirmed the operational viability of such an extension, projecting a potential ridership of around 35,000 passengers per day for the preferred variant.
Initial plans included one or two new stations within Berlin territory, followed by additional stops in Brandenburg. These stops would encompass Schönefeld station, the former Terminal 5, and locations within the Airport City. A stop at the planned “Midfield Gardens” commercial district was also considered, though deemed optional.
Economic Viability Confirmed, Funding Remains a Challenge
A significant milestone was reached in April 2025 when an economic viability study, conducted by Intraplan Consult, concluded that the socio-economic benefits of the U7 extension would outweigh the projected investments. This finding is crucial, as it fulfills a primary requirement for federal funding under the Municipal Transport Financing Act. The study involved collaboration between Berlin, Brandenburg, the district of Dahme-Spreewald, the municipality of Schönefeld, and the airport operating company FBB.
However, this positive assessment does not guarantee immediate construction. The involved states must still clarify the financing mechanisms for planning and construction. Furthermore, a federal funding application and subsequent planning and approval processes are still pending. The FBB itself stated in 2025 that discussions on financing were paramount.
Expo 2035 Bid Elevates U7 Project’s Urgency
The potential World Expo in 2035 has injected new urgency into the U7 extension project. Berlin and Brandenburg are currently exploring a joint bid, with preliminary plans placing the main exhibition grounds in Schönefeld. Berlin’s Department of Economics has reportedly informed Brandenburg that the U7 connection to the proposed Expo site is a prerequisite for a joint bid.
This condition is driven by the anticipated visitor numbers for the Expo. The Expo company estimates an average of 160,000 guests per day, with at least 60%, and ideally 75%, expected to arrive via public transport.
Brandenburg Expresses Skepticism Regarding Timeline and Funding
Despite Berlin’s strong stance, Brandenburg’s Infrastructure Minister Robert Crumbach has expressed doubts about the U7’s completion by a potential Expo 2035, citing lengthy planning periods. He also questioned the extent of Brandenburg’s financial contribution, prioritizing improved utilization of existing public transport connections to BER, particularly during early morning and late evening hours.
This divergence highlights the ongoing political challenges. The total proposed route from Rudow to BER spans approximately eight kilometers and includes up to seven new stations. A shorter extension, reaching only northern Schönefeld, would cover only a portion of this plan.
The U7 extension from Rudow to Schönefeld and BER Airport remains a critical project for Berlin’s future urban development and its ambitions on the international stage. Its realization hinges on overcoming significant financial and political hurdles in the coming years.
Source: Senate Department for Mobility, Transport, Climate Protection and Environment, Ministry for Infrastructure and State Planning Brandenburg, Tagesspiegel, BVG
