FRANKFURT, Germany (AP) – The Lufthansa Group announced on Monday its decision to eliminate 4,000 jobs by the year 2030. This restructuring will leverage advancements in artificial intelligence and digitalization, as well as consolidate roles among its member airlines. Despite this job reduction, the airline expects continued strong demand for air travel and a positive outlook for profitability in the coming years.
The majority of the job losses will occur in Germany and will primarily impact administrative rather than operational positions within the company. Lufthansa indicated that it is working towards enhancing integration among its member airlines, which include Lufthansa, SWISS, Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines, and ITA Airways. The company is evaluating which roles may no longer be necessary due to overlapping functions and increased efficiency.
Lufthansa emphasized that the "profound changes brought about by digitalization and artificial intelligence" are expected to enhance operational efficiency across various business areas. The airline expressed confidence during its strategic presentation for investors and analysts in Munich, citing robust demand for air travel amidst constraints on flight offerings caused by pressure on supply chains for aircraft and engines. This situation is characterized by a tight market, which is keeping planes well-populated and driving revenue growth.
Looking ahead, the Lufthansa Group forecasts "significantly increased profitability" by the decade's end. In line with this optimistic outlook, the airline is preparing for what it describes as the largest fleet modernization initiative in its history. This ambitious plan aims to add more than 230 new aircraft to its lineup by 2030, which includes the acquisition of 100 long-haul aircraft.
The Lufthansa Group operates as a comprehensive aviation entity, encompassing network airlines along with the point-to-point airline Eurowings and various service companies. As of 2024, the group employed 101,709 individuals and reported revenue of €37.6 billion (approximately $44 billion).
In summary, as Lufthansa Group navigates the evolving landscape of air travel through technological advancements, it is making significant changes to its workforce and operational strategies to improve overall efficiency and profitability.
