German politicians confirm their commitment towards air transport at Aviation-Event conference

The latest Aviation-Event hosted in Frankfurt with the support of the Office for Economic Development of the city of Frankfurt on February 3 brought together top decision makers including from the German world of politics to look at the role of air transport in Germany. Some 27 decision makers were present at the conference.

The grand opening conference happened with speeches from two politicians : Manfred Pentz, Minister for Federal and European Affairs, International Affairs for the State of Hesse (where Frankfurt is located) and Stefan Schnorr, State Secretary at the Federal Ministry for Transport. Both recognized and endorsed the important role played by air transport. Both confirmed the major shift from the German government towards the aviation sector.

Aviation Event Germany turned indeed into a strong call to better explain the aviation sector to the wider public and to emphasize its close relationship with tourism, economic development, and international connectivity.

Manfred Pentz, Minister for Federal and European affairs, underlined the political responsibility to balance regulation with competitiveness. Rather than focusing solely on creating new legislation, policymakers should also consider simplifying existing rules and reducing administrative burdens. According to the minister, improving regulatory efficiency is essential to maintain economic dynamism while safeguarding long-term growth and innovation. The discussion also reflected on how political decision-making should not only address future ambitions but also preserve economic heritage and stability.

Pentz highlighted Frankfurt’s central role within Hesse and Europe as a major aviation hub. He described Frankfurt Airport, with approximately 600 daily takeoffs and landings,  as a lifeline for the regional economy and a key driver of international trade and tourism.

“Hesse ranks among Europe’s strongest regional economies, and aviation plays a critical role in supporting thousands of businesses through global connectivity. Alongside the financial sector and major trade fairs, the airport remains one of the most important location factors for companies operating in the region. The state government reaffirms its commitment to supporting the airport’s continued growth and expanding partnerships with key global markets,” he told.

Despite these strengths, the minister acknowledged significant challenges facing by the aviation industry in Germany. High operating costs, including air transport taxes, security charges, and air traffic control fees, threaten the country’s competitiveness. “Planned reductions in aviation taxes which will start in mid-2026 are a welcomed positive step, but further relief measures are deemed necessary,” highlighted Pentz.

State Secretary Stefan Schnorr from the Federal Ministry for Transport echoed as well the importance of aviation for Germany’s mobility and export-driven economy.

” The government’s strategy for strengthening Germany as an aviation hub rests on three main pillars: economic competitiveness, reliable regulatory frameworks, and sustainable transformation toward climate neutrality. Planned initiatives include reducing government-imposed costs, simplifying procedures, accelerating infrastructure approvals, and promoting digitalization across passenger processing and logistics operations,” told Schnorr.

“Significant investments are also being directed toward sustainable aviation fuels and innovative technologies to support decarbonization while maintaining operational efficiency,” he added.

Speakers emphasized that innovation, planning certainty, and collaboration between industry and policymakers are then essential to navigate the sector’s transformation.

Ultimately, Aviation-Event Germany highlighted the need for a balanced approach that combines economic ambition with environmental responsibility, ensuring that Germany and Europe remain strong players in the global aviation landscape while adapting to evolving challenges and opportunities.

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