Air Dolomiti vs Air Berlin: Which Airline Is Better?

Air Berlin no longer flies. It stopped in 2017. Read its story

Quick verdict

Air Dolomiti generally offers a well-integrated European regional network with strong ties to the Lufthansa Group and Star Alliance, providing seamless connectivity and lounge access for business travelers. It features a smaller but modern fleet focusing on short-to-medium haul flights with comfortable seating and complimentary meals on many flights. Air Berlin, while no longer operational since 2017, had a significantly larger fleet and network that included long-haul destinations, catering to a broader market with a hybrid low-cost and full-service model. Air Berlin’s pricing structure was competitive, especially for budget-conscious travelers, although meal services were typically à la carte. Both airlines maintained strong safety records and provided in-flight entertainment options suitable to their service models. Ultimately, Air Dolomiti suits frequent flyers who prioritize connectivity and comfort within Europe, while Air Berlin appealed more to budget-conscious families and leisure travelers seeking affordable options across a larger route network.

At a glance

Air Dolomiti Air Berlin

General

Headquarter Dossobuono, Villafranca di Verona, Italy Berlin, Germany

Airline type Regional Airline Hybrid Low-Cost Carrier

Alliance Star Alliance –

Fleet & Destination

Fleet size 28 (Mar 2026) 130

Long-Haul flights Primarily regional and short-to-medium haul flights within Europe Yes, operated long-haul flights to North America, the Caribbean, and Middle East.

Service & Comfort

Cabin classes Business Class and Economy Class Economy, Premium Economy, Business Class

Seat pitch Business Class approximately 36 inches, Economy Class approximately 31 inches Economy: approx. 30 inches; Premium Economy: approx. 34 inches; Business: lie-flat seats

In-flight entertainment Limited to personal devices with onboard Wi-Fi available on select aircraft Personal screens with movies, music, and games on long-haul flights.

Free meals & drinks Complimentary light meals and beverages on most flights Complimentary meals on long-haul and some premium routes; snacks and drinks on short-haul flights.

Baggage allowance One cabin bag and one checked bag included in fare, with additional allowance for Business Class Economy: 1 checked bag up to 23 kg; Business: 2 checked bags up to 32 kg each.

Pricing

Price range €70–€180 €40–€350

Change/Cancellation fees Modification fees vary by fare class, generally waived for Business Class tickets Fees varied by fare type; flexible tickets allowed free changes with advance notice.

Punctuality & Safety

On-time performance Consistently above 85% on-time departures and arrivals Moderate, with improvements over its operational years until 2017.

Safety record Strong safety record with no major incidents since inception Generally good safety record with no major accidents reported during its operation.

Extras & loyalty

Airport Lounges Access to Lufthansa lounges for Business Class and Star Alliance Gold members Access to Berlin and Düsseldorf lounges available for business class passengers and top-tier frequent flyers.

Upgrades Upgrade options available from Economy to Business Class subject to availability and fare conditions Upgrades available via frequent flyer miles or at the airport subject to availability.

Search your flight

Air Dolomiti and Air Berlin are two prominent international carriers, each representing its region with strong global connectivity and a focus on premium service. This comparison highlights their key strengths to help travelers make informed decisions about their flight choices between Air Dolomiti and Air Berlin. Both airlines offer unique value propositions in terms of network, onboard experience, and pricing.

About Air Dolomiti Read more

Global Network and Operations

Operates regional flights serving over 30 destinations across Europe.
Fleet consists mainly of Embraer 195 and Embraer 190 aircraft.
Strong operational integration with Lufthansa, feeding passengers into its extensive global network.
Member of the Lufthansa Group and part of the Star Alliance network via this affiliation.

Innovation and Milestones

Became a Lufthansa Group subsidiary in 2003, enhancing its market reach and operational capabilities.
Pioneered the use of modern regional jets such as the Embraer E-Jet family to improve passenger comfort and efficiency.
Integrated its ticketing and frequent flyer program with Lufthansa's Miles & More, leveraging alliance benefits.
Ongoing investments to modernize its fleet and expand route offerings within Europe.

Customer Experience and Recognition

Air Dolomiti provides a high-quality customer experience focused on regional business travelers, offering comfortable seating in Business and Economy classes. The airline emphasizes punctuality and friendly service. It has been commended for:

Offering complimentary meals on most flights, reflecting Italian culinary influences.
Maintaining a good on-time performance record within short-haul operations.
Providing a smooth connection experience through Lufthansa’s and Star Alliance’s global network.
Access to Lufthansa lounges for eligible passengers at key airports.

Future Outlook

Air Dolomiti plans to continue expanding its European footprint by increasing flight frequencies and opening new routes to capitalize on rising passenger demand in regional markets. Investments in fleet modernization are underway to further increase fuel efficiency and passenger comfort. The airline also aims to deepen its integration within the Lufthansa Group and Star Alliance to offer seamless travel experiences and broaden connectivity.

Air Dolomiti's full profile

About Air Berlin Read more

Global Network and Operations

Primarily focused on scheduled and charter flights within Europe.
Operated long-haul flights to destinations like the United States, the Caribbean, and the Middle East.
Maintained partnerships with airlines including Etihad Airways and Lufthansa for broader network access.
Utilized a fleet size of approximately 130 aircraft at its peak.

Innovation and Milestones

Became Germany's largest low-cost carrier and one of Europe's leading airlines.
Was among the first European carriers to adopt the hybrid model combining low-cost and full-service elements.
Introduced the ‘‘Topbonus’’ frequent flyer program, gaining loyal customers across its network.
Collaborated with Etihad Airways, leading to strategic investments and expanded international reach.

Customer Experience and Recognition

Air Berlin offered a range of cabin classes from economy to premium economy and business class on select long-haul routes. It aimed to provide quality service including complimentary meals on long-haul flights and inflight entertainment. The airline was recognized for its customer-friendly approach and competitive fares. Despite ceasing operations in 2017, its legacy influenced the European aviation market.

Future Outlook

Although Air Berlin ceased operations in 2017 due to financial difficulties and restructuring, its former assets and routes have since been absorbed by other carriers, notably Lufthansa and easyJet. The brand's history remains a case study in strategic airline management in Europe, underscoring the challenges of hybrid carrier models within competitive markets.

Air Berlin's full profile