Air travel limitations persistently decreasing air traveler count
German Airports Struggle Amidst Declining Passenger Traffic and Soaring Losses
As the Chinese New Year approaches in mid-February 2021, the impact on German airports remains uncertain. While the extensive flight networks of major airports like Frankfurt and Munich might potentially attract increased travel during this period, a definitive answer regarding which airports will profit cannot be given with the current information.
The start of the year has seen a significant shift in cargo traffic, with some locations experiencing over a 30% growth in the last week of January. However, this growth is largely attributed to the low comparison level in 2020.
Air passenger traffic in Germany, on the other hand, has taken a dramatic downturn. In January 2021, the traffic declined by more than 90% compared to the previous year. This dire situation has led to losses of more than ten million euros per day for German airports, according to Ralph Beisel, the CEO of the airport association ADV.
Beisel has been vocal about the precarious situation, warning that without state support, the first locations will not survive the winter. He also emphasised that every fourth of the around 180,000 jobs at German airports is threatened.
The CEO's concerns are not unfounded. He stated that a turnaround is only in sight when restrictive travel and quarantine regulations are replaced by practical testing strategies. Until then, the industry continues to struggle.
A photo provided by dpa shows a couple waiting at the airport, a poignant reminder of the industry's current state. Airports across Germany are demanding that state aid be granted as non-repayable subsidies to prevent irreparable structural breaks.
Despite the bleak outlook, Beisel has not seen any signs of a recovery in the demand for travel. The pandemic's impact on the aviation industry continues to be felt, with no end in sight.
As we move into February, the question remains: will the Chinese New Year bring a much-needed boost to German airports, or will it be another month of struggle and loss? Only time will tell.
