Berlin airport halts evening flights amid ice
By Alice Mariscotti-Wyatt
Last updated on February 6, 2026
Berlin airport suspended evening flight operations after sheet ice turned the airfield unsafe, with operations effectively stopped around 7:30 p.m. local time. About 100 flights scheduled for the evening—around 30 departures and 70 arrivals—were affected. The airport reported no departures since the morning and several landings were also canceled. A red ice warning was in force across parts of eastern Germany. Passengers should check directly with their airline for rebooking or refund options while the disruption continues.
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Berlin airport suspended evening flight operations due to sheet ice on the airfield, with the airport stating that by around 7:30 p.m. local time it had effectively ceased operations. The conditions were described as turning the airfield into an ice rink, preventing safe movements on the runway and apron.
The disruption affected approximately 100 scheduled flights for the evening period, comprising about 30 departures and 70 arrivals. Earlier in the day, no departures had taken place since the morning, and some landings were also canceled. By late afternoon, several dozen flights had already been canceled as the situation evolved.
The German Weather Service issued a red ice warning in the early evening, covering large parts of eastern Germany from the southwest of Berlin to the Baltic coast. This alert corresponded with the hazardous ice formation that forced the airport to halt operations.
Passengers with flights scheduled for the affected period should verify their flight status with their airline and consider available rerouting or refunds where applicable. Given the rapidly changing conditions, airlines may adjust schedules or provide alternative arrangements. No end time for the disruption was provided.
Regional impacts from the cold snap extended beyond aviation. In Potsdam, a series of collisions on a highway injured around 20 people, while Berlin authorities faced a public debate over the use of de-icing salts on roads. The weather service noted that the preceding month had been significantly colder than the long-term average across Germany.
Travelers are advised to follow airline communications closely for updates on rebooking, care provisions, and any subsequent resumptions of service once conditions improve.
Know your rights
These are your air passenger rights:
When your flight's disrupted, you may be entitled to various forms of care and compensation under EC 261 and other applicable laws.
Rerouting or refund
If your flight is canceled, your airline must provide an alternative. You may also get a full refund if you no longer wish to travel.
Care and assistance
Your airline must provide food and refreshments if your journey is delayed more than a few hours.
Accommodation
If you are away from home and your journey is delayed overnight, the airline must offer you accommodation and transportation to it.
Communication
Under EC 261 you are entitled to 2 phone calls or emails if your journey is delayed over 1 hour.
No compensation when a disruption is caused by extraordinary circumstances, as this appears to be.
This advice is provided to help you if your flight is delayed or canceled. However, the exact care and compensation you are entitled to will depend on your specific circumstances and flight. Always follow the directions of your airline, particularly with regard to check-in and boarding times.
Quick facts
Disruption:
Cancellation
Cause:
Weather issue
Compensation:
Not eligible for compensation
Flights affected:
100
Status:
Current disruption
Checked by:
Alice Mariscotti-Wyatt
Date updated:
February 6, 2026