Ryanair Reduces 800,000 Seats and Cancels 24 Routes This Winter as German Government Fails to Lower High Access Costs
Ryanair, Europe’s leading airline, announced significant changes to its winter operations in Germany for 2025. The airline will reduce its capacity by more than 800,000 seats and cancel 24 routes across nine high-cost airports, which include Berlin, Hamburg, and Memmingen. Additionally, airports in Dortmund, Dresden, and Leipzig are set to remain closed this winter.
Impact of High Access Costs
This strategy is a response to the German government’s ongoing inability to alleviate the high access costs impacting the aviation sector. Specifically, Ryanair noted that a recent increase in aviation tax, which rose by 24% in May 2024, has further exacerbated the situation. Germany’s costs for air traffic control, security, and airport services are disproportionately high compared to other EU nations.
Comparison with Other European Countries
- Countries like Ireland, Spain, and Poland impose no aviation taxes.
- Sweden, Hungary, and parts of Italy are reducing their aviation taxes and access costs.
This disparity makes Germany less competitive as it struggles to recover air traffic levels, currently operating at only 88% of pre-COVID figures.
Call for Government Action
Ryanair urges immediate action from German officials, particularly Transport Minister Patrick Schnieder, to lower access costs. The costs currently impede air traffic recovery and hinder economic growth. Without intervention, Germany risks falling further behind its more competitive European counterparts.
Potential for Growth
If the government addresses these issues, Ryanair forecasts that it could significantly increase its operations in Germany. The airline has outlined a potential commitment to introduce 30 additional aircraft, translating to a $3 billion investment. Furthermore, this could double passenger traffic to 34 million annually and create over 1,000 new jobs.
Ryanair’s Chief Marketing Officer, Dara Brady, emphasized the urgency of resolving the aviation tax and high access costs. He expressed disappointment that the newly elected government has not upheld its promise to improve these conditions, leading to a reduction in connectivity, tourism, and jobs across Germany.
In conclusion, Ryanair’s reduction of capacity and routes this winter highlights the pressing need for reforms within Germany’s aviation sector. The airline stands ready to contribute to a revitalized travel market, contingent on necessary government action.
