I really hope that they manage to stay in Tempelhof.SN Brussels Airlines has learned with much regret the decision taken by the Berlin Authorities to close Berlin Tempelhof Airport with effect from 31st of October 2004.
As the single largest operator at Berlin Tempelhof, SN was disappointed only to learn the decision through a Press Release issued by the ‘Senatsverwaltung für Stadtentwicklung.’.
SN Brussels Airlines has always been committed to Tempelhof and a long tradition of service between Brussels and Tempelhof is now in danger of coming to a close. SN has succeeded in providing a punctual, comfortable and reliable service from the heart of Europe to the heart of Berlin and has built a clear position as the leading carrier at Tempelhof.
On the basis of our overall performance and positive feedback from our customers, the airline’s intention has always been to continue operating to Tempelhof. This position has been consistently expressed to our partners in Berlin.
The commitment shown by existing carriers at the airport combined with strong interest from a number of other German airlines to start new services from Tempelhof clearly illustrates a strong potential for the airport as part of the Berlin Airport System.
SN fully supports Berlin in its long-term aim to build a new Airport system to fulfil the future needs of the German capital and its region. However, it is clearly premature to close Tempelhof before this System is in place and when there is clearly a sustainable demand for services to Tempelhof.
SN Brussels Airlines, currently operating 4 flights daily between Brussels and Tempelhof, will be taking the necessary steps to challenge this decision and to safeguard the future of its operations to Berlin.
This is a very special airport for SN. Sabena was the first airline to fly to Tempelhof, and therefore SN has some privileges.
They are for example always allowed to park under the special roof: see pictures below
http://www.airliners.net/open.file/280744/M/
http://www.airliners.net/open.file/257364/M/
http://www.airliners.net/open.file/244502/M/
while other carriers like Swiss have to park outside: http://www.airliners.net/open.file/252055/L/
That's a great advantage when it's raining
Anyway, I really hope that Sn will be able to maintain those flights but I fear for the worst.
Regards
Chris