Air Berlin: Almeria to Dortmund

The carrier: Air Berlin

About

Air Berlin is one of the big two German low-cost carriers and is Germany’s second largest airline after Lufthansa. Air Berlin flies out of 20 airports in Germany to destinations across Europe. In light of its size, Air Berlin is one of the most important low-cost carriers in Europe. It's especially good for getting to and from Germany.

Air Berlin offers quite a few perks that other low-cost airlines do not. First off, it doles out complimentary snacks and drinks on flights, a practice that is close to unheard of in the low-cost world, as well as free newspapers and seat assignments. The airline also runs a frequent flyer program and offers connecting flights as single fares, fully guaranteeing that luggage will make the connection. The airline tends to fly to primary airports and fills up with far more business travelers than your average airline.

Upside

Flying with Air Berlin is, on the whole, a pleasant experience. Excellent meal service.

Downside

Airline mostly functions on a north-south axis linking Germany to the Mediterranean.

Baggage

* Carry-on: One item up to 6 kg, excluding laptop (8kg including laptop).
* Checked: Up to 20 kg for economy class and 30kg for business class.  If over 20 kg, unless otherwise noted, €10 for each additional kg. The rate increases to €25 per kg if you are flying 3,000 miles or more.  Different allowance for passengers going to the US and Canada.

* Please visit Air Berlin’s website for more information on its baggage policy.

Seating

You may select seats online at time of booking. In addition, you can check in online for most flights. Seat reservations cost €10-15. An extra large seat will cost €20 (€60 for a long-haul flight). Seat reservations are free for families with infants.

Check-in and Ticketing

Online check-in is available for anyone with a valid e-ticket.  Most routes allow online check-in from 30 hours in advance to 2 hours prior to departure.  Passengers with checked luggage are also allowed to check-in online.

more...

Departure: Almeria, Spain (LEI)

Almería Airport or "Aeropuerto de Almería," has regular international and national flights that arrive and depart daily. The airport is quite modern and also features a terrace that overlooks the runway for the enjoyment of travelers. Various charter companies fly to and from the airport, making it the second most important airport for the tourism industry in Andalucia. Location: Almeria Airport is 9 km to the east of Almeria, the region's capital city (500 m from the coast). Transport: - Bus: The Almería Airport buses pick up travelers from outside the arrivals terminal and offer service to the Almería town center every 50 minutes. The service starts in the early morning and ends at night (schedules will vary on weekends). For the specific schedule and fares consult the bus company's Official Website. Service is also offered with the ALSA bus company for long distance trips. - Taxi: The Almeria Airport Taxis can be found at the taxi rank outside the arrivals hall. To get to the city center of Almería the fare should be approximately €20. Fares to other surrounding towns will vary. Almería Airport also offers cars for private hire. Often, these private transfers will cost less than a taxi and may reduce the hassle of finding a taxi and haggling the price. Another perk (for you non-Spanish speakers) is that travelers can request an English speaking driver. For more information on private car hires consult the Website. Service: Almeria Airport is divided into three floors. The departure and arrival activity is concentrated on the ground floor. In the airport there are two information points as well as many shops and restaurants. Travelers are also able to relax and pass time in the rooftop café that can be reached after the security checkpoint. more...

Arrival: Dortmund, Germany (DTM)

more...