Lufthansa CEO Carsten Spohr stated that due to increasing fuel costs and tensions in the Middle East, 20 aircraft could be temporarily grounded. A 2.5% decrease in capacity is on the agenda.
Rising Fuel Costs Challenge Aviation
According to a report by the German business newspaper Handelsblatt, rising fuel costs driven by geopolitical tensions stemming from the war in Iran are increasing pressure on the aviation sector.
As a result of these developments, Lufthansa has started to reassess its operational capacity.
Grounding of 20 Aircraft on the Agenda
Lufthansa Group CEO Carsten Spohr announced in a meeting with employees that approximately 20 aircraft could be temporarily grounded.
It was stated that this step would correspond to a decrease of approximately 2.5% in the company’s total seat capacity.
Scenario Could Expand to 40 Aircraft
Spohr stated that if current conditions worsen further, this measure could be expanded. Accordingly, the number of grounded aircraft could rise to as many as 40.
This move by the company is seen as a preparation against the potential broader impacts of the conflict in the Middle East on the aviation sector.
Older Aircraft Will Be Prioritized
According to CEO Spohr’s statement, the majority of the aircraft planned to be taken out of operation will consist of older models nearing the end of their economic life.
With this strategy, Lufthansa aims to:
- Minimize the impact on main fleet operations
- Manage capacity flexibly
Warning of Risk of Decline in Demand
Spohr also pointed out that rising costs and the environment of uncertainty could affect passenger behavior.
Accordingly:
- Increasing flight costs
- Rising geopolitical risks
