Overview
- Union and SPD agreed to roll back part of the 2024 air travel tax increase from 1 July 2026, providing about €350 million in relief to the sector.
- Airlines and airports welcomed the move as a boost to Germany’s aviation hub, with Lufthansa saying it will re‑examine routes previously slated for cuts.
- Industry groups made no firm pledge on cheaper fares, saying any price impact depends on other location costs, and the government also plans to reduce air navigation charges in 2026.
- Green and left‑wing politicians, climate activists and consumer advocates condemned the decision as environmentally harmful and socially regressive, pointing to the Deutschlandticket rising to €63.
- Ryanair urged full and immediate abolition of the tax and touted potential network expansion, while experts cautioned that any benefits for travelers will vary by route competition.