Berlin taxis to lose passenger pickup rights at BER airport

Starting January 1, 2027, taxis based in Berlin will no longer be permitted to pick up passengers at Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER). The Dahme-Spreewald district has terminated an agreement that had been in place since 2020, decreeing that only taxis with a registered business seat in Schönefeld will have the right to collect passengers at the airport.

The district cited a significant decline in demand for taxi services, estimating that only 500 to 600 vehicles are now required to meet existing needs. Officials also noted increased competition from ride-hailing platforms such as Uber, Bolt, and Free Now. The decision aims to improve the economic situation for local taxi companies by reducing long wait times, which can currently exceed three hours.

Ute Bonde, the Senator for Mobility, expressed regret over the development, noting the challenging market conditions for the Berlin taxi industry. However, officials clarified that passengers can still arrange pickups from Berlin taxis via telephone dispatch or mobile apps. The expansion of rail connections, including the Airport Express (FEX) service, was also noted as a factor in changing transit patterns.