Whilst Lufthansa insists on maintaining access to its global network, particularly on long-haul routes – the cornerstone of its profitability – the German airline group announced on Wednesday 22 April that it would be cancelling 20,000 short-haul flights by October, representing a reduction in capacity of less than 1% in available seat-kilometres. Behind this modest figure lies a wider rationalisation drive, driven by soaring fuel prices, “which have doubled since the start of the Iranian conflict”, according to the airline’s statement.

This rationalisation plan primarily targets the least profitable European routes, particularly those from the Frankfurt and Munich hubs. At the same time, Lufthansa is strengthening certain routes from Zurich, Vienna and Brussels. The first measures are already evident. Since 31 May, around 120 daily flights have been cancelled, with routes to Bydgoszcz and Rzeszów in Poland, and Stavanger in Norway, being discontinued. Other destinations remain served, but via re-routed connections through the group’s various hubs.

40,000 tonnes of kerosene saved

Beyond short-term adjustments, Lufthansa says it is stepping up its efforts to implement a more comprehensive strategy for integrating its airlines – Lufthansa Airlines, Swiss, Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines and ITA Airways. The aim is “to optimise aircraft utilisation and minimise duplication between hubs, in an environment where every flight counts”.

The 20,000 cancelled flights represent a saving of over 40,000 tonnes of kerosene, a significant factor at a time when energy costs are weighing heavily on profit margins. The group is nevertheless keen to reassure the public ahead of the summer. “Fuel supplies are secure for the coming weeks,” it assures, combining physical purchases with price hedging. The full adjustments to the flight schedule are due to be published by late April or early May, with the stated aim of stabilising timetables for the peak season.