Air Berlin: Munich to Bucharest

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: Munich, Germany - Franz J Strauss (MUC)

In Brief: The Munich Airport is located 28 km (18 miles) northeast of central Munich. One of Germany's biggest airports, it serves a broad smattering of airlines, conventional and low-cost alike. Air Berlin and Condor have dense route maps in and out of Munich. Transportation: There are two decent connections: the S-Bahn (€8.80 for a 45 minute journey) and an airport bus (€10; 45 minutes.)

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Arrival: Bucharest, Romania - Henri Coanda (Otopeni) Intl (OTP)

Henri Coanda International Airport, also known as Otopeni Airport, is the busiest airport in Romania. The airport was renamed in honor of the Romanian flight pioneer and professor Henri Coanda. He built the world's first jet powered aircraft. Location: Henri Coanda International Airport is located 14 km (9 miles) outside the city center. Transport: - Rail: The #783 Express Line links up to the North Railway Station in the city center. - Bus: The #783 Express line bus connects Bucharest Henri Coanda International Airport with the city center. Journey time is about 60 minutes. Bus stops are in front of the Domestic Flights Terminal and International Departures Terminal. - Taxi: Taxi stands are outside the International Departures Terminal and Domestic Flights Terminal. Service: Various bars and restaurants, shops, duty free shops, a bank, ATMs, post office, pharmacy, currency exchange, and a barber shop are available. more...