Berlin Airport records 2.3 million passengers in May, with Middle East traffic impacting growth

Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) handled 2.3 million passengers in May 2026, representing a modest year-on-year increase of 0.9% compared with May 2025 and a stronger 9.5% rise compared with April 2026.

According to the airport’s latest traffic report, approximately 22,000 more passengers used BER than in May last year. However, growth was constrained by the continuing conflict in the Middle East and the resulting reduction in air services to the region. Passenger traffic on Middle Eastern routes fell by around 41,000 travellers compared with May 2025.

The airport’s busiest day of the month was 22 May, the Friday before the Whitsun holiday period, when 91,231 passengers passed through the airport.

Despite the slight increase in passenger numbers, aircraft movements declined. BER recorded more than 17,200 take-offs and landings during May, a decrease of 1.6% compared with the same month in 2025.

Cargo performance was also weaker. The airport handled approximately 3,900 tonnes of freight during the month, representing a 9.4% year-on-year decline.

The figures suggest that BER’s passenger market remains broadly stable, with strong seasonal demand offsetting geopolitical disruptions affecting certain international routes. Passenger volumes continue to recover, although aircraft movements and cargo traffic have yet to match the pace of passenger growth.