Aviation in Germany: High taxes slow down the growth!

Aviation in Germany: High taxes slow down the growth!

Nürnberg, Deutschland - The aviation industry in Germany has to deal with considerable challenges. If not only business travelers are missing, but also increasing location costs slow the recovery of air traffic compared to other European countries. The Federal Association of German Air Transport Management (BDL) emphasizes the problems with the high taxes that represent a clear competitive disadvantage in Germany. Joachim Lang, General Manager of the BDL, points out that the number of passengers in Germany increases more slowly and takes a critical view of the location costs, which now make up about a third of the ticket price. According to BR

A comparison with other European countries shows that only Finland, Slovenia and Sweden according to BR less. The importance of inner -German flights has dropped for many airlines because the air traffic tax for these flights is twice. The focus is particularly on cheap airlines such as Ryanair, which can station their machines outside of Germany and can fly from there.

study on location costs

The German Center for Aerospace (DLR) carried out a comprehensive analysis of location costs in German air traffic on behalf of the Federal Ministry of Digital and Transport (BMDV). The dlr-study confirmed that the location costs in Germany have risen by 38 %, during only 26 %. In addition to high taxes and fees, the weak economic situation is also one of the factors that contribute to slow recovery in air traffic in Germany.

The continued decline in business trips and the changed travel habits in which many travelers switch to the train is particularly problematic. There are also structural changes in the air traffic market, which further complicates the situation. State Secretary Stefan Schnorr emphasizes that a well -functioning connection for Germany is essential as an export nation and identifies measures to strengthen the industry.

recommendations for action

The results of the Study of the BMDV suggest to be lowered or even to be omitted for internal European flights, what could lead to an increase of up to 5 million passengers. Furthermore, efficiency increases in airports and air traffic control as well as competitive measures to promote new market participants should be focused.

In order to strengthen Germany's competitiveness, a uniform air traffic tax in Europe would be a sensible means of counteracting national competitive disadvantages. The discussion about the high location costs is also loud at local levels, for example at Nuremberg Airport. Here you hope for measures to reduce costs to further increase the number of passengers. Despite the current difficulties, the airport is optimistic for 2023 and expects an increase to around 4.4 million passengers, after around 4 million in 2022.

Overall, it remains to be seen how political decision -makers adapt to the extensive problem in German air traffic and whether necessary measures are taken to strengthen the location.