Faster Route for Berlin's Airport Express: FEX to Bypass Gesundbrunnen and Ostkreuz

The Berlin Airport Express (FEX) is set to enhance its service by adopting a quicker route that will no longer include stops at Gesundbrunnen and Ostkreuz. This change, effective from December 14, aims to connect the Berlin city center with Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) more efficiently.

Residents living in the northern parts of the city, particularly those who currently utilize the FEX to reach the airport from Gesundbrunnen, will need to adjust their travel plans. The existing direct connection allows passengers to reach the airport in approximately 30 minutes, provided the trains are on schedule. However, the upcoming changes are likely to eliminate this convenient option, prompting concerns among local residents about reduced accessibility.

In contrast, the new route will prioritize stations that already have robust transport links. For instance, passengers traveling from Südkreuz and Potsdamer Platz will benefit from a significantly reduced journey time. The travel duration from the central station to the airport is expected to decrease from 39 minutes to just 23 minutes, effectively halving the travel time. Additionally, the frequency of the FEX trains will double, operating every 15 minutes instead of the current half-hour intervals.

This adjustment aims to provide better service for airport employees, who will have access to a continuous night service. Meanwhile, other regional train lines, such as RB24 and RB32, will maintain their half-hourly connections to the airport from Ostkreuz.

Despite the potential benefits, some residents express frustration over the lack of communication regarding these changes. A local resident has initiated a petition to voice concerns about the impact of the new route on travel options for those in the northern districts. The petition highlights the insufficient information provided by transport authorities regarding the adjustments to the FEX service and calls for more transparency in the decision-making process.

While the express service will no longer stop at Gesundbrunnen, alternative travel options are being discussed. The introduction of the new S15 line, which will connect Gesundbrunnen directly to the central station, is anticipated to mitigate increased travel times to the airport. This new line has faced delays in its rollout, but once operational, it will allow for a seamless transfer to the FEX.

Transport authorities emphasize that the changes are necessary to accommodate the growing demand for efficient travel to the airport. They note that the existing infrastructure has limitations, and the adjustments are part of a broader strategy to improve public transport connections in Berlin, particularly with ongoing developments along the Dresden railway.

As Berlin continues to expand its transport network, the integration of various train services aims to streamline access to key locations, including the airport. While some residents may face challenges due to the revised route, the overall objective remains to enhance connectivity and reduce travel times across the city.