Emirates Delays Berlin Flights Over Air Transport Agreement Terms with Germany


Tim Clark says the airline is ready to launch services in April 2027 if outstanding issues are resolved, amid reports of potential restrictions on expansion at existing German airports.

Berlin, Germany – Al Rehla

Emirates has postponed plans to launch direct flights between Dubai and Berlin Brandenburg Airport, despite securing additional traffic rights allowing it to serve a fifth destination in Germany, citing concerns over certain provisions of the bilateral air transport agreement.

Speaking to journalists in Berlin, Emirates President Tim Clark said negotiations had initially progressed positively, but some terms of the agreement proved less flexible than expected. He confirmed that discussions with Germany's Federal Ministry of Transport remain ongoing to clarify outstanding issues.

April 2027 Remains a Potential Launch Date

Clark explained that Emirates would be prepared to begin Berlin services on April 1, 2027, provided an agreement is reached on the disputed conditions. However, he did not disclose the specific provisions under negotiation.

Additional Traffic Rights and Potential Restrictions

In September, Germany approved additional traffic rights allowing Emirates to operate to a fifth German airport, alongside Frankfurt, Munich, Düsseldorf, and Hamburg, with a maximum of seven weekly flights.
German media reports suggested that the disagreement may involve restrictions on increasing services at the airline's four existing German destinations in exchange for access to Berlin. Emirates has not officially confirmed these details.

Eurowings Prepares Dubai Services
Meanwhile, German carrier Eurowings is preparing to resume direct flights between Berlin and Dubai on November 25, as part of its winter schedule.

Al Rehla Perspective | Travel Options and Air Connectivity

The postponement means travelers wishing to use Emirates' network to reach Berlin must continue relying on other German airports or alternative connecting flights.

A future launch could strengthen tourism and business ties between the UAE and Germany while expanding travel options for passengers connecting through Dubai from Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.
However, additional capacity would not necessarily translate into lower airfares, as ticket prices remain influenced by demand, operating costs, and market competition.