Summer holidays at BER Airport: New technology, travel tips and destinations

This site is also available on: Deutsch

Summer holidays at BER Airport: Current developments and tips for travelers

The summer holidays at Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) promise a record number of passengers and numerous innovations designed to significantly simplify and accelerate the travel process. From July 23 to September 7, around 3.7 million passengers are expected to be processed at BER – about 100,000 more than in the same period last year.

Advanced security checks with modern CT technology

Already at the start of the school holidays, Control Area 1 in Terminal 1 is on its way to being completely upgraded with new CT scanners. A total of 20 screening lanes with this technology will then be available, meaning four more lanes have been put into operation than originally planned. While all eight lanes in Control Area 1 were originally scheduled to be completed in the fall, thanks to the dedicated cooperation of all partners involved, four lanes were already in operation by the start of the school holidays.

All eight lanes in Terminal 2 are already equipped with CT scanners, and checkpoint 5 in Terminal 1 has also been equipped with the modern technology since March. CT technology allows passengers to leave electronic devices and liquids up to 100 ml in their hand luggage, which both simplifies the security check process and significantly reduces waiting times.

Passenger volume and popular destinations

On the first holiday weekend, from Wednesday, July 23 to Sunday, July 27, BER expects approximately 390,000 passengers. In total, the airport’s movements over the entire holiday period will amount to approximately 24,300 takeoffs and landings.

Sunny Mediterranean travel destinations are once again particularly popular this summer. Countries such as Turkey, Spain, Italy, and France are among the favorite destinations. By far the most popular destination remains Palma de Mallorca, which offers up to 70 weekly flights from airlines such as Eurowings, easyJet, Ryanair, and Sundair. This diversity is also reflected in the summer flight schedule: More than 70 airlines connect BER with around 150 destinations in 50 countries.

Helpful travel tips for a relaxed departure

Flughafen Berlin Brandenburg GmbH recommends that all travelers allow sufficient time for their arrival and check the details of the respective terminal and airline information. Good preparation is key to a smooth start to their vacation. Reserving parking spaces online on the website or via the app and completing check-in and baggage drop-off in advance can reduce waiting times and make the experience more pleasant.

Passengers with only hand luggage can proceed directly to the security checkpoint, where over 120 self-check-in kiosks are available. The “Fast Bag Drop” option also allows passengers to drop off their luggage quickly and independently at the airport. Boarding gates typically close 30 minutes before departure; this should be taken into account when planning their flight.

Digital offers for a convenient process

BER recently launched the “BER Runway” service, which allows passengers to book free time slots for security checks in Terminal 1 starting seven days before departure. In addition, travelers with a biometric passport or new German identity card can use the “EasyPass,” which enables automatic passport control and speeds up border clearance when departing for non-EU countries.

The airport also places great emphasis on promoting contactless procedures. With the “BER Runway” and “Central Departure” options, travelers can better coordinate their passage through security checks while simultaneously traveling with less physical strain.

Arrival by public transport and parking

Those traveling by public transport should definitely monitor the current traffic situation and any construction work. The Berlin S-Bahn (suburban railway) will be particularly affected by restrictions from July 24 to August 4. While the S45 line will run every 10 minutes between BER and Südkreuz, the S9 connection to the airport will be suspended during this period.

Those arriving by car are advised to reserve their parking space online in advance, as demand is particularly high during the holiday season. A valet parking service is also available, allowing travelers to conveniently drop off their car directly in front of the check-in hall. The vehicle will then be safely parked for the duration of their stay and, upon request, even cleaned.

It is also worth booking long-distance tickets directly via the BER website or app to make your journey as smooth as possible.

Important information about luggage and security

To avoid delays at security checkpoints, passengers should comply with the regulations when preparing their luggage. Power banks and e-cigarettes are prohibited in checked baggage and may only be carried in hand luggage, subject to appropriate quantity and transport restrictions.

The EU-wide regulations for transporting liquids remain in effect: individual containers may not exceed 100 ml, and the total volume of all liquids may not exceed 1 liter. However, unpacking liquids at CT scanner checkpoints is no longer required.

New offers in the areas of gastronomy and shopping

In addition to an extensive range of shops and restaurants, passengers at BER will now also find new highlights. For example, the sushi concept “Friendly Fish” and the “Laggner Pizzatorio La Pizzaiola” opened this summer in the security area of Terminal 1, enriching the dining options.

Outside the security area, REWE and Kamps are open 24/7 in Terminal 1. For bargain hunters and thrifty shoppers, the BER app offers coupons that can be redeemed at numerous partners and service providers.

Summary and further information sources

BER Airport is well prepared for the challenges of the busy summer holiday season: New control technologies, digital services and a wide range of travel and shopping options ensure that travel becomes more relaxed and safer.

Travelers are well advised to inform themselves in advance about procedures, safety regulations and special offers on the official website or in the BER app:

• Official website for travel advice: https://ber.social/reisehinweise
• Information about security checks: sicherheitskontrolle.berlin-airport.de
• Flight arrivals and departures: Available on the BER homepage

With consistent modernization and optimized processes, BER is making the start of the summer vacation for millions of passengers more comfortable and efficient than ever before.