The difference between air traffic in Germany and the development in the rest of Europe has reached its highest level since the end of the coronavirus pandemic. According to data prepared by the German Airlines Association, seat capacity offered on flights originating from and arriving in Germany stagnated in the first half of 2026.

Seat capacity only reached 87 percent of the same period in 2019. In European countries outside Germany, average capacity rose to 113 percent of pre-pandemic levels. Thus, the difference between Germany and the rest of Europe increased to 26 points. This difference was 18 points in the first half of 2023.

Poland and Southern Europe Recorded Strong Growth

Some European countries showed significant growth compared to pre-pandemic levels. In Poland, seat capacity reached 146 percent of 2019 levels, 143 percent in Greece, and 125 percent in Portugal.

With a rate of 87 percent, Germany was among Europe's weakest-performing countries, along with Finland and Sweden. Capacity remained at 86 percent in Finland and 77 percent in Sweden.

Economic Loss Reached 40 Billion Euros

The stagnation in German aviation is estimated to have led to a loss of approximately 40 billion euros in inflation-adjusted added value between 2023 and 2025 alone.

This loss extends beyond the aviation sector. While catering companies and fuel suppliers receive fewer orders, hotels, restaurants, and the retail sector are also negatively affected by the decrease in tourists and business travelers.

High Costs Threaten Connections

Christoph Ploß, the Federal Government's Coordinator for Maritime Economy and Tourism, stated that swift action is needed to ensure more airline connections.

Ploß pointed out that costs at German airports are high in international comparison. Reminding that the federal government reduced the air transport tax as of July 1, Ploß added that airport fees, infrastructure, and security expenses should also be reduced.

He warned that if costs are not reduced, more airlines could withdraw their aircraft from Germany, and remaining flights could become significantly more expensive for both tourists and business travelers.

Görsel: © AI-generated illustration