Berlin Airport Expands Long-Haul Flights to North America This Summer

Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) is expanding its long-haul connections this summer. New routes to North America and Canada will begin in the coming months, while discussions continue over additional slots for Emirates. The changes come as the airport prepares for a busy season, with flights to 155 destinations across 55 countries. From May 3, Air Transat will restart its service between BER and Toronto, operating three times a week. This will be followed in July by Air Canada's new nonstop route to Montréal, also running three times weekly. Meanwhile, Delta Air Lines and United Airlines will maintain direct flights to New York from BER.

The summer schedule, running from July to October 24, includes popular European destinations like Mallorca, Antalya, Paris, Vienna, and Zurich. Berlin's state government has been actively pushing for more long-haul options at BER, though exact figures on additional takeoff and landing rights secured in recent years remain unclear.

Emirates, however, has faced challenges. The airline recently cancelled several flights via Dubai due to regional conflicts involving Iran. Despite this, the federal government is still considering granting Emirates an extra slot at BER. Lufthansa has publicly opposed the move, arguing against further allocation to the Dubai-based carrier. The expansion of routes reflects BER's growing role as a key travel hub. With new flights to Canada and the US, alongside ongoing negotiations for Emirates, the airport is set for a busy summer. The outcome of the slot discussions could further shape its long-haul offerings in the future.