Severe Freezing Rain Halts Operations at Berlin Brandenburg Airport Amid Northeast Germany's Winter Disruptions

Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) has completely suspended its flight operations due to hazardous conditions caused by freezing rain and black ice. Airport officials confirmed that no departures or landings are currently possible, with the timing for resuming normal operations remaining unclear. The shutdown began Thursday evening after thick ice sheets formed on runways, creating unsafe conditions.

Earlier on Thursday, flights were significantly disrupted as all departures were halted to allow for aircraft de-icing, but worsening ice conditions forced a full stoppage of arrivals as well. Travelers are urged to contact their airlines directly for updates amid ongoing delays, cancellations, and rebookings.

The German Weather Service reports that the northeast region, including the Mecklenburg Lake District and the Baltic coast, is particularly affected by persistent freezing rain and black ice. Fog with visibility below 100 meters further complicates travel safety. On the icy Autobahn 10 near Potsdam, 19 people were injured in accidents, with three requiring hospital treatment. Train services between Hannover and Berlin have also faced disruptions.

Meteorologists anticipate a gradual easing of the hazardous icy conditions throughout Friday, although light frost will persist in the northeast. Milder maritime air is advancing into Germany’s southern and western regions, bringing pre-spring temperatures, but fog and slippery surfaces will continue to pose challenges.

The ongoing severe winter weather has thus caused major transportation disruptions and safety risks across northeastern Germany, with authorities emphasizing caution amid treacherous roads and operational shutdowns at key transport hubs like BER airport.