Nothing is running anymore at the regional and long-distance train platforms Berlin-Schönefeld (Ex-BER T5)
Berlin-Schönefeld station has stopped serving long-distance and regional trains, leaving only S-Bahn connections for passengers. The move affects both travellers and local businesses in the area, particularly those in the logistics sector. Despite its closure for most services, the station’s platforms remain functional but underused.
The station once played a key role in linking the Rummelsburg maintenance depot to Berlin Hauptbahnhof, acting as an intermediate stop for ICE trains. Now, regional lines RB24 and RB32 bypass Schönefeld entirely, running directly to BER Airport instead. This change has left the station’s two 420-metre platforms—though structurally sound—largely unused for long-distance travel.
The platforms stand at just 55 cm high, below the 76 cm standard preferred for long-distance services. While upgrading them would improve accessibility, Deutsche Bahn has not announced any reconstruction plans. Digital displays at the station now direct passengers to check live updates online, but only S-Bahn trains and buses appear in the listings. Keeping Schönefeld operational for long-distance stops would cost Deutsche Bahn around €20.54 per train, rising slightly to €22.45 next year. However, the underground station at BER is already at capacity, limiting options for expanding long-distance connections. Without Schönefeld in use, the airport’s broader development zone—home to many logistics firms—now relies solely on S-Bahn links.
The closure of long-distance and regional services at Schönefeld has reduced transport options for both passengers and local businesses. The station’s platforms remain open but serve only S-Bahn trains, with no immediate plans for upgrades. For now, travellers and companies in the area must adapt to fewer rail connections.
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