Berlin Airport

The history of Berlin's airports

Berlin's history as an aviation center dates back to the 1920s. The city's first airport, Tempelhof Airport, opened in 1923 and quickly became one of Europe's most important air hubs. In the 1930s, Tegel Airport was added, which was mainly used for domestic air traffic.

With the division of Berlin after the Second World War, the two airports were operated separately from each other. From then on, Tempelhof served the air traffic of the Western Allies, while Tegel was reserved for domestic German traffic. After the reunification of Germany in 1990, planning began for a new, central major airport to replace the two old airports.

The current status of Berlin Airport

The new Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) was originally scheduled to open in 2011, but due to numerous construction defects and technical problems, the commissioning was delayed further and further. It was not until October 2020 that the airport was finally opened after almost a decade of construction and billions in costs.

Today, BER is the largest airport in the capital region and handles the majority of air traffic in Berlin. The two old airports Tempelhof and Tegel have since been closed. Despite years of delays and difficulties in construction, BER is now a modern, efficient airport that optimally connects Berlin to international air traffic.

The challenges of the construction of the new Berlin Brandenburg Airport

The construction of Berlin Brandenburg Airport was associated with enormous challenges from the very beginning. Initially, the start of construction was delayed by several years due to problems with financing and approval. When construction could finally begin, a number of technical problems occurred:

1. Deficiencies in the fire protection system: The fire protection concepts had to be revised several times, which led to major delays.
2. Problems with the baggage handling system: The system did not work as planned and had to be completely redesigned.
3. Errors in electrical and ventilation planning: Numerous planning errors made expensive conversions necessary.
4. Management issues: Construction management was overwhelmed by the complexity of the project, which further exacerbated delays.

Despite all the setbacks and difficulties, those responsible finally managed to complete the airport. However, the years of delay and the billions in costs have severely damaged BER's reputation.

The architecture of Berlin Airport

Berlin Brandenburg Airport was designed by the renowned architectural firm gmp - von Gerkan, Marg and Partners. The concept is based on a clear, functional architecture that optimally organises the flow of passengers.

The main terminal is a huge, light-flooded building with a length of over one kilometre. The façade is made of glass and steel, which gives the building a modern, open appearance. Inside, generous movement areas and short distances ensure that everything runs smoothly.

In addition to the main terminal, the airport complex also includes several satellite terminals as well as extensive logistics and supply facilities. The architecture consistently follows a clear, tidy design that skilfully combines functionality and aesthetics.

The transport connections of Berlin Brandenburg Airport

Berlin Brandenburg Airport has excellent connections to the regional and national transport network. There is a train station directly at the airport, which is served by the S-Bahn and regional trains. In addition, there is a direct connection by subway to Berlin city center.

Spacious parking garages are available for private transport. In addition, the airport is connected to the road network via several motorway connections. Taxi and rental car services are also present at the airport.

The connection to public transport is particularly noteworthy. Thanks to the direct rail connection, air travellers can get to the city of Berlin comfortably and in an environmentally friendly way. Overall, BER offers an excellent transport infrastructure that guarantees passengers smooth arrival and departure comfort.

The services and facilities at Berlin Airport

Berlin Brandenburg Airport has a variety of services and facilities designed to make the stay as pleasant as possible for passengers:

Gastronomy:

• Numerous restaurants, cafés and bars in various price categories
• Offer of regional specialties and international cuisine
• Large food courts with a variety of dining options

Shopping:

• Wide duty-free range of perfumes, cosmetics, alcohol and tobacco products
• Various retail stores for fashion, accessories, books and technology
• Convenience stores for quick shopping of travel supplies

Entertainment:

• Cinema complex with several halls
• Spa area with massages and wellness offers
• Children's playgrounds and lounges

Service:

• Extensive range of bank branches and ATMs
• Luggage storage, parcel service and citizens' office
• Free Wi-Fi throughout the airport grounds

With this wide range of services and facilities, Berlin Brandenburg Airport offers a high level of comfort and relaxation for air travellers. The stay at BER should be more than just a stopover on the journey.

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