Lufthansa cuts 20,000 short-haul flights
Rising fuel prices are forcing airlines worldwide to recalibrate operations, and Lufthansa Group has emerged as the latest major carrier to respond.
The aviation giant has announced plans to cut around 20,000 short-haul flights this summer in a bid to contain costs and improve operational efficiency.
Despite the scale of the reduction, the overall impact on capacity will be minimal.
The Group said the cuts will lead to a marginal decline of less than 1 per cent in total capacity, measured in available seat kilometres (ASK).
However, the cost savings are expected to be substantial, with the airline estimating a reduction of more than 40,000 metric tonnes of jet fuel consumption by October.
The decision comes against the backdrop of a sharp spike in global fuel prices, which have reportedly doubled following the escalation of tensions linked to the Iran conflict escalation.
Jet fuel remains one of the largest operating expenses for airlines, and the surge has rendered several short-haul routes economically unviable.
In response, Lufthansa is scaling back loss-making routes, particularly from its primary hubs in Frankfurt and Munich, while maintaining broader network connectivity.
The airline has emphasised that the move is focused on efficiency rather than a contraction of its global footprint.
While certain routes are being suspended, Lufthansa is simultaneously strengthening operations through alternative hubs such as Zurich, Vienna and Brussels.
This strategy allows the Group to preserve access to long-haul destinations while optimising short-haul connectivity.
The restructuring spans all six of Lufthansa's major hubs — Frankfurt, Munich, Zurich, Vienna, Brussels and Rome - and includes operations of its key airlines such as Lufthansa, SWISS, Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines and ITA Airways.
The initial phase of adjustments is already in effect, with approximately 120 daily flights cancelled through May 31.
Affected passengers have been informed, and several routes have been temporarily suspended, including services from Frankfurt to cities in Poland and Norway.
Further revisions are expected in the coming weeks, with updated summer schedules likely to be released by late April.
