Approval of air travelers: Germany loses attractiveness!

Approval of air travelers: Germany loses attractiveness!

At the German airports, there is a significant decline in the proportion of passengers that Germany control as a holiday destination. According to the ADV airport association, this share fell from 32 percent in 2017 to only 21 percent in 2024. An extensive survey in which more than 125,000 participants were involved showed that both an inadequate range of air travel as well as high taxes and state fees are regarded as the main reasons for this development. Adv general manager Ralph Beisel said that Germany has lost attractiveness since pandemic.

The decline in business travelers can be observed particularly strongly, the proportion of which has dropped to only 20 percent. In return, however, growth in the area of ​​private trips, in particular through visits to relatives and friends as well as for short city trips and events.

trends in travel behavior

The ADV passenger survey, which was published on August 15, 2023, shows a clear trend in the passenger structure and travel behavior. The proportion of passengers under 30 has increased to 29 percent, while more than 54 percent of air travelers are under 40 years old. This makes it clear that the younger generation is increasingly becoming a flight affinity. In addition, the proportion of female passengers has also increased to 48 percent.

effects on the airlines

These developments have profound effects on the economic situation of the airports. Fraport AG, operator of Frankfurt Airport, reported in the first quarter of 2025 of a loss of EUR 26.4 million, while a profit of 12.7 million euros could be booked in the same period last year. From January to March 2025, 12.4 million passengers were counted in Frankfurt, which corresponds to a decline of almost one percent compared to the previous year It is also particularly noticeable that 48 percent of passengers drive to the airport by car. This data illustrates the need for the aviation industry to adapt to the changed needs of the travel guests and to increase competitiveness.

In order to increase the attractiveness of Germany as a travel destination, the ADV demands that the air traffic tax to be deleted without replacement. The challenges are clear, and the industry is under pressure to find innovative solutions in order to stop the falling passenger numbers and to move more tourists into the country.

The developments that result from the results of the passenger survey and the current figures of the airports have far -reaching consequences for the German tourism industry and the entire air traffic system. A rethink is required here to increase the attractiveness of air travel again and to promote sustainable growth.