Lufthansa to Slash 20,000 Short-Haul Flights Amid Rising Fuel Costs
Germany’s flagship carrier, Lufthansa, has announced plans to cut approximately 20,000 short-haul flights during the upcoming summer travel season, citing escalating fuel prices and operational costs that have rendered many routes financially unsustainable. The airline disclosed that the decision forms part of broader cost-control measures aimed at stabilizing its operations in a challenging global aviation environment. According to a company statement, the sharp increase in aviation fuel prices has significantly impacted profitability, particularly on shorter routes where margins are already tight. A spokesperson for Lufthansa noted that “many short-haul journeys are no longer economically viable under current conditions,” explaining that the airline must adjust its network to reflect present market realities. The move is expected to affect several European routes, though the airline has assured passengers that efforts will be made to minimize disruptions by consolidating flight...