Black ice shuts Berlin Brandenburg Airport; flights delayed and canceled
By Alice Mariscotti-Wyatt
Last updated on February 6, 2026
Berlin Brandenburg Airport remains closed due to black ice after snow and freezing rain on 5 February. De-icing took up to an hour in the morning, leading to slow operations, delays, and cancellations. By midday, about 35 of roughly 180 scheduled departures had already been canceled, with numbers rising later. All evening flights on Thursday were canceled, and on Friday both take-offs and landings stayed suspended with no reopening time given. Passengers are urged to check flight status with their airline as crews continue de-icing efforts.
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Berlin Brandenburg Airport is closed due to black ice following snow and freezing rain, with both take-offs and landings suspended and no confirmed time for resumption of operations. The disruption began on 5 February when freezing rain caused runways and aircraft surfaces to become dangerously slick.
On Thursday morning, aircraft de-icing reportedly took up to an hour, preventing any departures until late morning. When operations did resume, they progressed slowly with significant delays and numerous cancellations. By midday, around 35 of approximately 180 scheduled departures had already been canceled, and the number rose through the afternoon as adverse weather persisted. Airport authorities later canceled all scheduled evening flights—departures and arrivals—and described the airfield conditions as resembling an ice rink. Operations effectively ceased at around 18:30 CET.
Overnight, winter service crews treated operational areas with de-icing agents, but conditions remained unsafe. On Friday, the airport stayed shut, and authorities maintained the suspension of all take-offs and landings due to the ice hazard. Passengers have been advised to monitor their flight status directly with their airlines.
Germany’s national weather service issued warnings for slippery conditions across Berlin and northwestern Brandenburg amid ongoing freezing rain. The icy weather also affected road and rail transport across the region.
Key points for travelers:
- Airport status: Closed; take-offs and landings suspended
- Disruption type: Cancellations and delays
- Start date: 5 February
- Known impact: About 35 cancellations by midday Thursday, with more later in the day
- Next steps: Check with airlines for rebooking options and flight status updates
There is currently no confirmed time for the airport to reopen. Further updates will depend on improvements in weather and runway conditions.
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:
Delays and Cancellations
Cause:
Weather issue
Compensation:
Not eligible for compensation
Flights affected:
35
Status:
Current disruption
Start date:
2026-02-05
Airports affected:
Berlin Brandenburg Airport
Checked by:
Alice Mariscotti-Wyatt
Date updated:
February 6, 2026
