Expert: Airports stabilized, but major hurdles remain

According to aviation expert Hartmut Fricke, the economic stabilization of Leipzig/Halle and Dresden Airports is not yet a reason to sound the all-clear. The early achievement of important restructuring targets is "extremely welcome, especially in these times", said the scientist from the Technical University of Dresden. However, the general conditions for the aviation industry would "not really get any easier, at least not until 2030".

Mittdeutsche Flughafen AG (MFAG) recently stated that it had achieved key economic goals earlier than originally planned. According to the company, the restructuring consultant KPMG and the financing banks will decide whether the restructuring phase can actually be completed ahead of schedule. The airport group is on a clearly stabilized economic course.

Air traffic remains under pressure

At the same time, Fricke referred to the ongoing challenges for the industry. Flying has become significantly more expensive in Germany. In addition, many airlines have reduced their services at regional airports.

Hope for new aircraft technologies

However, the aviation expert sees prospects for locations such as Leipzig/Halle and Dresden. "Hybrid-electric and SAF refueling aircraft could revive short-haul flights," he said. Saxony should provide targeted support for such developments. SAF stands for Sustainable Aviation Fuels. These alternative aviation fuels can cause significantly less CO2 than conventional kerosene in the overall balance from production.

In Fricke's view, the establishment of the aircraft manufacturer Deutsche Aircraft at Leipzig/Halle Airport also fits in with these hopes. A plant for the D328eco, a regional aircraft with around 40 seats, is currently being built there.

Politicians stick to both airports

Politicians are sticking to the fundamental direction of the airports. The outgoing Chairwoman of the Supervisory Board of MFAG, Hiltrud Werner, recently described the operation of two airports in Saxony as economically difficult. Nevertheless, the Free State considers both locations to be indispensable.

"From a purely economic perspective, the parallel operation of both airports is undoubtedly challenging. But from an economic perspective, the picture is completely different," explained Saxony's Finance Minister Christian Piwarz (CDU). According to the Ministry of Finance, Leipzig/Halle and Dresden Airports together secure more than 52,000 jobs and represent a gross value added of almost five billion euros.

DHL remains an important stability factor

A key stability factor remains the DHL hub in Leipzig/Halle, according to MFAG. DHL is a "central strategic partner and a key stabilizing factor for the Leipzig/Halle site", the company explained. At the same time, the airport group wants to broaden its economic base and tap into additional potential in passenger and freight traffic as well as in services and settlements.