German Aviation Sector Urges Government to Cut Costs and Boost Sustainability
Industry leaders warn that high state-imposed costs are threatening competitiveness and connectivity, calling for tax reductions and investment in sustainable technologies.
- A coalition of 14 associations and unions is pressing the German government to reduce state-imposed costs, including the air traffic tax, to revive the aviation sector's competitiveness.
- The Climate and Transformation Fund is proposed as a resource to support sustainable aviation technologies, such as synthetic fuels and hydrogen-based systems.
- A study by the German Aerospace Center found that aviation costs in Germany have risen by 38% since 2019, outpacing the European average of 26%.
- Passenger numbers in Germany remain 20% below pre-pandemic levels, with high costs and competition from rail services cited as key factors.
- Industry stakeholders argue that reducing the air traffic tax could increase passenger numbers by up to 5 million annually, bolstering connectivity and economic growth.
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