Air Berlin: Stuttgart to Stockholm

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: Stuttgart, Germany - Echterdingen (STR)

In Brief: Located about 14 km (9 miles) south of central Stuttgart, the airport is a significant hub for Germanwings and TUIfly. Other budget airlines serving the airport include Air Berlin, Blue Air, Condor, and Flybe. In addition to these low-cost airlines, the airport sees a fair amount of conventional airline traffic. Transportation: Two S-Bahn lines connect the Stuttgart Airport with central Stuttgart. The S2 and S3 lines make the 25-odd minute connection for just €3.

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Arrival: Stockholm, Sweden - Arlanda (ARN)

Stockholm's traditional airport, Arlanda is the city's major international airport. Though mostly an airport served by conventional airlines, a smattering of low-cost carriers also serve Arlanda. Nordic budget airlines Sterling, FlyNordic, Blue1, and Norwegian Air Shuttle all fly to and from Arlanda. Location: Stockholm-Arlanda Airport is located 36 km (23 miles) outside the Stockholm city center. Transport: - Rail: There are multiple train services at Arlanda Airport. The Arlanda Express is a high-speed train that goes non-stop between Stockholm and the airport in 20 minutes. Long-distance trains depart from the underground Arlanda Central Station to 70 Swedish destinations. Commuter train service is also available from the station. Tickets for these trains can be purchased at a machine or information desk. A ticket costs SEK220. - Bus: There is a Flygbussarna bus link which takes 40 minutes. Buses meet arrivals and departures. A ticket costs SEK99. - Taxi: Taxis are found outside the main terminal building and travelers should consult the taxi coordinator to obtain one. There are also two taxis lines, one for environmentally "clean" taxis, usually at the front of the queue of taxis. Service: The airport has numerous stores and restaurants (30 each) as well as banks, a pharmacy, chapel, currency exchange, and a post office. Other facilities include a hair salon, dry cleaner, fitness center, and a nursing room with childplay areas. Wireless Internet access and public Internet portals are throughout the airport. more...