The gap 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 compiled by the German Aviation Association, the seat capacity offered on flights departing from and arriving in Germany stagnated in the first half of 2026.

Seat capacity was only able to reach 87 percent of the same period in 2019. In European countries outside of Germany, average capacity rose to 113 percent of pre-pandemic levels. Thus, the gap between Germany and the rest of Europe widened to 26 points. This gap was at 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, in Greece 143 percent, and in Portugal 125 percent.

Germany, with an 87 percent rate, was among the weakest performing countries in Europe, alongside Finland and Sweden. Capacity in Finland remained at 86 percent, and in Sweden at 77 percent.

Economic loss reached 40 billion euros

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

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

High costs threaten connectivity

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

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

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

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