Reduction in the number of airports

What's the problem?

Ten of the 16 international airports in Germany are in the red, and of the 19 regional airports, not one is permanently self-sustaining. These airports are dependent on public subsidies. The losses, which run into millions, are often passed on to private households and public transport users via public utility companies. At the same time, overcapacities are sold to the airlines via cheap tariffs, which then make profits at the expense of the general public.

What is the measure?

Since the large number of airports in Germany is not only a financial disaster but especially a climate disaster, regional airports must be closed and the number of airports in Germany must be reduced significantly. The journey to the approximately 3 remaining airports can be made by train. The selection of the airports to be used should not only be based on the current size of the airports but also take into account the interests of local residents - for example, many more people are affected by noise, (ultra) fine dust and health problems in Frankfurt than in Hahn. It is important that employees at the airports are not put out on the street, but that there is a fair transition to climate-friendly working areas - in the best case, coupled with a general reduction in working hours.

How quickly can the measure be implemented?

The measure can be implemented gradually over the next 5-10 years.

References to other measures

This measure is well complemented by the cancellation of short-haul or domestic flights, moratoria on airport expansion and by the expansion of rail transport.

Problems with social, global or generational justice

As with all measures, it is particularly important to ensure fair transitions for employees.