The German aviation market is struggling with a sluggish recovery after the Corona shock. According to the industry association BDL (Federal Association of the German Aviation Industry), the flight capacity at German airports is threatening to fall further compared to other European countries. A current forecast shows that the 2024/25 winter flight schedule will only offer 85 percent of the seats that were available before the Corona crisis in winter 2018/19. This is in contrast to other European countries, whose capacity has already reached 109 percent of the pre-crisis level.

The industry sees the main reason for the delay in the high costs of government-imposed fees and taxes. Since 2020, these burdens have almost doubled, which is affecting the competitiveness of German airports. BDL President Jens Bischof complains that the German air traffic tax was last increased by around 1 percent on May 25. This additional burden has led to many European point-to-point airlines, which usually offer direct connections, avoiding German airports.

Compared to other European cities, the government-set fees for a typical medium-haul flight in Germany are considerably higher. For example, in Frankfurt, Stuttgart or Düsseldorf, the fees are around twice as much as in cities such as Rome, Oslo or Brussels. In Madrid, the cost of the same flight is 660 euros, while in German airports it can be up to 4.400 euros.

Demand for a moratorium on charges

The BDL is therefore calling for a "burden moratorium", i.e. a temporary suspension of these costs. Bischof emphasises that this would be a first step to secure the connectivity of German airports and improve the connection of Germany as a business location. The aim is to increase the attractiveness of German airports for international and national airlines and to strengthen competitiveness on the international market.

In addition to the already high fees, airlines and airports in Germany will soon have to expect further cost increases. From the beginning of next year, the maximum fee for aviation security checks will rise from 10 to 15 euros per passenger. This will further increase operating costs and could further exacerbate the already strained financial situation of airlines.

Criticism of the EU climate package “Fit for 55”

In addition to the national cost burdens, the BDL also criticizes the European climate package "Fit for 55". This package, which aims to make the EU 2030 percent more climate-friendly by 55, is seen by the industry as excessively burdensome. The BDL argues that the climate package places a disproportionate burden on the European aviation industry and strengthens the competitive advantage of airlines from the Arabian Gulf and Turkey. These regions benefit from lower operating costs and less stringent environmental regulations, which gives them an additional advantage in international competition.

Impact on the industry

The current challenges pose significant problems for the German aviation industry. The high costs and the increasing competitive conditions could have long-term effects on the development and stability of the sector. A sustainable solution is necessary to increase the attractiveness of German airports for international airlines and to strengthen Germany as a business location in global competition.

The industry is calling on politicians to rethink the cost structure and regulation in order to create a balanced and competitive basis for the aviation industry. Only through a combination of cost reduction, regulatory adjustment and strategic investment can the German aviation market improve its position in international comparison and ensure a sustainable recovery after the pandemic-related setbacks.

The slow progress of German air transport compared to other European countries is a worrying sign for the industry. High costs from government fees and the upcoming increases are putting additional pressure on airlines and airports. Immediate action to reduce these costs and a critical review of European climate policy could be crucial for how the German air transport market will develop in the coming years.