Air Berlin: Innsbruck to Catania

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: Innsbruck, Austria - Kranebitten (INN)

The Kranebitten Airport in Innsbruck, Austria is the largest airport in western Austria and serves many regional flights around the Alps. Airport activity increases seasonally during the winter months due to an increased number of skiers traveling in the region. Location: The Kranebitten Airport is approximately 2.5 miles from the center of Innsbruck. Transport: - Rail: Trains are available for transport to and from the airport and city center. For specific times and prices, consult the online train schedules online train schedules. - Bus: The Kranbitten Airport is connected to the main train station (Hauptbahnhof) by buses that run every 15 minutes. The journey back and forth takes approximately 20 minutes. For detailed time tables, consult the bus scheduling website. - Taxi: Taxis are always waiting conveniently in front of the airport building. Services: Small cafes are open early for the convenience of early-morning travelers. The airport-shop located in the main hall is open 7 days a week.

more...

Arrival: Catania, Italy - Fontanarossa (CTA)

Catania-Fontanarossa Airport or "Aeroporto di Catania-Fontanarossa" is the busiest airport in Sicily. Location: Catania-Fontanarossa Airport is located 5 kilometers (3 miles) south of Catania, the second largest city on the Italian island of Sicily. Transport: - Bus: A shuttle bus service provides transport into Catania city center and the Central Train Station, while scheduled bus services to other parts of the island are also available direct from the airport. - Taxi: Travelers can take a taxi from the terminal building into the city or beyond, with popular locations including nearby Syracuse, Palermo, and Marsala. Service: This airport offers a shopping center and newsstand as well as restaurants and bars. Also, there is a flight information office, currency exchange, nursery, and bus ticket office. more...