The German Airports Association (ADV) has significantly revised its passenger volume expectations for 2026 downwards. Instead of the originally projected growth, the association now anticipates only stagnation across all German airports.
Management cites a combination of weak economic conditions, massively increased kerosene prices, and a disproportionately high tax burden compared to other European countries as the main reasons for this downturn. These factors are putting pressure on the economic viability of many flight routes, which is already leading to noticeable changes in the flight schedule.
Industry analyses confirm that low-cost carriers, particularly Ryanair, are reducing their capacity at German hubs. A prime example is the partial withdrawal from Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER), where price-sensitive routes have been canceled due to rising operating costs. Market data shows that airlines are increasingly relocating aircraft to locations in other European countries where regulatory taxes and fees are lower. This primarily affects secondary tourist routes and low-margin connections that can no longer be operated profitably under the current conditions.
Despite the stable situation in the current summer travel market, the ADV (German Airports Association) warns of a long-term weakening of Germany's air transport infrastructure. Air passenger duty remains at a record high despite minor adjustments, worsening competitiveness compared to international competitors. The association is therefore calling on the federal government to take decisive political action to safeguard Germany's position as a mobility hub. In the short term, a suspension of air passenger duty is being sought, followed by a medium-term halving of the levy to prevent the exodus of airlines and the loss of important flight connections.
Additional market observations reveal that German airports are lagging significantly behind southern European markets in the recovery of passenger numbers. While countries like Spain and Greece are already recording record figures, Germany continues to struggle with high operating costs. Industry experts point out that the high cost of kerosene cannot be offset solely through efficiency improvements, inevitably leading to higher ticket prices and declining demand. Without a correction of government burdens, Germany risks falling behind in the dynamic development of the global air transport market.