Overview
- The CDU/CSU–SPD coalition agreed to restore the Luftverkehrssteuer to pre–May 2024 levels from 1 July 2026, delivering about €350 million a year in relief to the sector.
- Current rates are €15.53 for short haul, €39.34 for medium haul and €70.83 for long haul per passenger, with consumer groups noting the cut would shave only a few euros off most European tickets.
- Industry associations and airports welcomed the move as a first step, and Lufthansa said it is reviewing routes previously marked for reduction or cancellation.
- Carriers declined to promise lower fares, citing still-elevated German location costs; the package also targets lower air-navigation charges in 2026 and funding for regional air traffic control.
- Greens, the Left, environmental NGOs and consumer advocates criticized the cut as a climate setback and a giveaway as the Deutschlandticket becomes pricier, while Ryanair pressed for scrapping the tax sooner and entirely.