German airline lobby blasts plan to grant Emirates a fifth airport slot
The German Airlines Association condemned the government's decision to let Emirates operate from an additional German airport, warning it will hurt domestic carriers.
The Bundesverband der Deutschen Fluggesellschaften (BDF) publicly opposed the federal government's plan to allow Emirates to launch services from a sixth German airport, arguing it will undermine German carriers and reduce employment. The association highlighted that Emirates will not provide direct long-haul flights from Berlin, only connections through its Dubai hub, which could intensify competition with existing German airlines.
Trade union Ver.di also denounced the policy, describing it as harmful to domestic jobs and critical infrastructure. In contrast, Berlin transport senator Ute Bonde welcomed the move as a tangible advantage for the city. The decision follows a recent announcement that Emirates may operate from five German airports after a visit by the UAE president, expanding beyond its current routes to Frankfurt, Munich, Düsseldorf and Hamburg.
Why it matters
The ruling could reshape competition in Germany's aviation market and affect jobs at local airlines.
In this story
