Germany's Air Travel Struggles to Take Off Post-Pandemic

Germany's passenger flights abroad increased by 4.6% year-on-year during April-October but are still 2.8% below pre-pandemic figures. The government plans tax cuts and deregulation to boost the industry. Meanwhile, EU countries have seen higher recovery rates, surpassing pre-pandemic passenger numbers.

The number of passengers flying abroad from German airports rose by 4.6% year-on-year during the crucial period from April to October. However, this number still remained 2.8% below pre-pandemic levels, according to official statistics released on Monday. The national statistics office reported that 68.5 million passengers departed from Germany on international flights during this summer's holiday season.

Germany's governing coalition reached a consensus last month to reduce certain airline taxes and relax regulations. This initiative aims to support the national air travel industry, which has been struggling to match the recovery rates of its European counterparts. Despite European Union passenger numbers recovering and even exceeding pre-pandemic levels by 3% last year, Germany, home to airline giant Lufthansa with major hubs in Frankfurt and Munich, continues to lag behind.

As part of the new government measures, the ticket tax on long-haul flights will decrease to 58.06 euros per passenger by 2029, down from 70.83 euros. Air traffic control fees are set to be reduced by over 10%, and relaxed security check regulations promise to streamline processes, according to the announcement by the governing coalition.

(With inputs from agencies.)