Air Berlin: Heraklion to Zurich

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.

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Departure: Heraklion, Greece - Heraklion International (HER)

Heraklion International Airport, also known as Nikos Kazantzakis International Airport, is the main airport and also the busiest on the island of Crete, Greece. It's named after Nikos Kazantzakis, a Greek writer and philosopher from Heraklion. Location: Heraklion International Airport is located 9 km (6 miles) east of the city of Heraklion. Transport: - Bus: Buses leave the airport for local destinations every few minutes. The schedule is less frequent on weekends. - Taxi: Taxis are available opposite of the Arrivals Hall. It is strongly advised that travelers negotiate a price with the driver before the taxi journey. Service: There is an information desk in the departures terminal that provides 24-hour service. There is also an ATM, several payphones, snack bars, a restaurant, and duty-free shopping. Baby changing facilities are also available. more...

Arrival: Zurich, Switzerland - Zurich (Kloten) (ZRH)

Zurich Airport, also known as Kloten Airport, is located in Kloten, Switzerland. Location: Zurich Airport is located 9 km (5 miles) outside of Zurich's city center. Transport: - Rail: The airport contains a Swiss Federal Railway station with trains to central Zurich. Trains take about 10 minutes, and access many other city and tourist destinations across Switzerland. - Bus: The bus terminal is located next to car park 2 and contains several regular bus lines that serve regional towns and villages. There is also a coach network that connects the airport to destinations all over Switzerland, including all major ski resorts. - Taxi: Taxis at the airport can be found outside Terminals 1 and 2. Service: In the Arrivals Hall, there are multiple information desks. Other services include a bank, currency exchange, post office, and Wireless Internet hotspots. There are numerous restaurants, cafes, snack bars, and shops (including duty-free) as well as a medical and dental center, pharmacy, nurseries, pharmacies, and a bicycle and baby cart rental. more...