After many delays and postponements spanning years, Germany’s third-largest airport, Berlin Brandenburg, is finally set to open Oct. 31. Tegel TXL will close Nov. 8. Schönefeld will become BER’s Terminal 5.

BER will boast three terminals and two runways with an annual capacity of 27 million passengers. The capacity will gradually increase to 45 million by 2040. With the airport opening, all air traffic in the German capital will be concentrated in one location. During the ceremonial opening, a Lufthansa and an easyJet plane will land simultaneously at the new airport.

Brandenburg connects to the city center via a rail and road network in about 30 minutes. After the opening, up to 14 trains per hour will be on offer. Eventually, the airport will feature 39 restaurants, 20 service companies and an almost 100,000-square-foot retail plaza in the heart of the main terminal. Also opening Oct. 31, but accepting reservations from Oct. 15, Steigenberger Airport Hotel is located at the terminal with 322 rooms, a conference center to accommodate up to 500, dining and a spa.

Terminal 1’s long glass façade is at the center of the complex; the central terminal follows a “one roof concept” with all key airport functions bundled together. The passenger terminal’s two-story hall, filigree steel-and-glass roof, warm wood tones and natural stone complement the check-in hall’s large, seemingly floating red wave designed by Los Angeles-based artist Pae White.

Are you eager for the airport opening? Or are you skeptical given the numerous past delays and changes? Tell us about it. Email us at letters@globaltravelerusa.com. Please include your full name and location.