Berlin is the largest city in Germany, with a population of over four million. The German capital is well-known for its vibrant culture and arts scene. Visitors can explore countless galleries and museums, and admire the abundance of historic architecture throughout the city.
The Brandenburg Gate is an iconic landmark for both Berlin and Germany, representing European history, unity and peace. Another important cultural site is the East Side Gallery, an outdoor exhibition of art painted directly onto a preserved 1.3km stretch of the Berlin Wall.
The Gendarmenmarkt is Berlin’s main square. Dating back to the late 17th century, it is home to a breathtaking architectural ensemble which includes the Konzerthaus concert hall and the famous Friedrichstadt and Neue Kirche Churches. During December, the square hosts one of Germany’s most popular Christmas markets.
Museum Island, a UNESCO world heritage site, consists of five museums built between 1830 and 1930. Other notable visitor attractions include the Reichstag building, Berlin Cathedral, Berlin City Palace, the Holocaust Memorial, the Gemäldegalerie, the Kurfürstendamm and Oberbaum Bridge.
Contemporary Berlin is a global city, with a thriving economy driven by high-tech firms, the creative industries and the service sector. It is also renowned for its modern convention venues and cutting-edge research facilities. Berlin is extremely popular with tourists, and has become the third most visited destination in Europe. The city is well known for its lively nightlife, tolerant atmosphere and sense of internationalism.
Airport Options
Berlin Tegel Airport (IATA: TXL, ICAO: EDDT) is the primary international airport in Berlin. It is the fourth busiest in Germany, having served over 20 million passengers in 2015. The airport is located approximately 8km northwest of Berlin city center, and is expected to close down once the new Berlin Brandenburg Airport opens in 2018.
Currently, EDDT airport can be used as an Airport of Entry (AoE), although not 24/7. Customs and immigration are on duty from 05:00 UTC until 22:00 UTC. Slot bookings, aircraft parking permits and Prior Permissions Required (PPR) are all mandatory. The maximum parking time allowed is two hours, and landing after 21:00 UTC is prohibited. The FBOs at the airport are not open 24 hours a day, however full ground handling services are available, as well as VIP and crew lounges. It is recommended that operators send all handling requests at least 72 hours prior to departure.
The secondary airport serving the city is Berlin Schonefeld Airport (IATA: SXF, ICAO: EDDB). EDDB is situated 18km southeast of central Berlin, and served over 8.5 million passengers in 2015. Unlike Tegal Airport, Schonefeld offers AoE and customs and immigration 24/7. Note however that EDDB’s GA terminal is closed from 21:00 UTC to 03:00 UTC, therefore FBO operating hours start at 04:00 UTC and end at 20:00 UTC. Due to the limited number of GA slots available, slot bookings are mandatory. PPR and parking permits are not required, and there are no restrictions to long-term parking. All permits and handling arrangements require a minimum of 48 hours advance notice.
Landing Permits and Visas
Landing permits are required only for scheduled commercial and charter flights. The processing time for a landing permit is two working days. Visas may be required for passengers and crew, depending on nationality.
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