BER Airport Kicks Off Summer Flight Schedule with 155 Destinations and Expanded Long-Haul Options
Schönefeld (dpa/bb) – Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) officially launched its summer flight schedule today, March 29, 2026, offering travelers direct access to 155 destinations across 55 countries. While the schedule officially commences today, some new connections will be introduced in the coming weeks, providing enhanced travel opportunities from the German capital.
A significant highlight of the new schedule is the expansion of long-haul routes, particularly to North America. From July to October, Air Canada will introduce new non-stop flights from Berlin to Montreal, operating at least three times a week. This new service will connect Berlin directly with the two-million-strong Canadian city, a move welcomed by the airport authorities.
Another Canadian connection is being offered by Air Transat, which will resume its thrice-weekly service to Toronto starting May 3, building on the success of last year’s route. The US metropolis of New York will also be directly accessible from BER throughout the summer. Delta Air Lines commenced its direct flights today, while United Airlines will follow suit from May 1, further strengthening transatlantic links.
Top Destinations and Ongoing Efforts to Boost Connectivity
The summer flight schedule is set to run until October 24, a period during which BER typically experiences significantly higher passenger volumes compared to the winter months. According to airport officials, perennial favorites such as Mallorca and Antalya remain top travel destinations from BER. Major European cities including Paris, Vienna, and Zurich also continue to be highly popular among travelers.
For years, the Berlin state government has been a staunch advocate for increasing long-haul connections from the capital airport. The primary objective is to enhance the region’s international connectivity, with a particular focus on securing licenses for additional take-offs and landings. These efforts are crucial for Berlin to solidify its position as a global hub.
Recently, the German federal government indicated its openness to granting an additional slot for Emirates, a request that has been pending for a considerable time. In February, the government stated its intensive work towards expanding international flight connections to and from Germany. However, a final decision on this matter is still pending, with Lufthansa having expressed strong opposition to the proposal. The discussion around Emirates’ slot has been further complicated by the airline’s cancellation of numerous flights via its Dubai hub due to the Iran-Iraq conflict.
Impact on Regional Economy and Future Outlook
The expanded flight schedule and the push for more long-haul connections are expected to have a positive impact on Berlin’s economy, boosting tourism, trade, and business travel. Improved international accessibility is vital for attracting foreign investment and fostering economic growth in the region.
The summer flight schedule reflects the ongoing recovery and growth of air travel, as well as the strategic efforts to position BER as a key international airport. As more connections become available, Berlin is set to become even more accessible to travelers from around the globe, further enhancing its appeal as a vibrant European capital.
The airport authorities continue to work closely with airlines and government bodies to address the challenges and opportunities associated with expanding air traffic, aiming to strike a balance between economic growth and environmental considerations.
Source: dpa, Berliner Abendblatt
