Germany Sets Ambitious 15-Year Strategy to Revitalize Aviation Sector
Germany's Vision for a Sustainable and Competitive Aviation Future
By Klaus Lauer
BERLIN, June 9 (Reuters) - Germany's government aims to make the country a leading hub for sustainable, safe and competitive aviation under a new 15-year strategy that includes cutting costs, boosting research and speeding up the use of greener fuels, according to a draft document seen by Reuters on Tuesday.
Approval and Implementation of the Strategy
The German cabinet is due to approve the strategy on Wednesday, which sets out short- and medium-term measures for civil and military aviation, aiming to provide greater planning certainty for policymakers, companies, the military and society.
Strategic Pillars and Objectives
Four Pillars of the Aviation Strategy
The strategy rests on four pillars: economic competitiveness, technological competitiveness, aviation as a military technology and aviation as a civil security technology.
Preparing for Future Challenges
It also seeks to prepare the industry for future crises and make aviation more climate-friendly.
Focus on Sustainable Aviation Fuels
Central Role of Greener Fuels
A rapid ramp-up of sustainable aviation fuels is central to achieving climate targets, the draft says, adding that Berlin wants to support national and European production of those fuels as well as the infrastructure that is required.
Challenges Facing German Aviation
Current Industry Hurdles
The document says German aviation faces challenges including weak passenger growth compared with the rest of Europe, rising costs, international competition and geopolitical tensions.
Government Measures and Budget Considerations
Policy and Financial Aspects
The draft refers to the government coalition's plans to lower air traffic tax and control fees and streamline aviation security, while adding that implementation of the strategy is subject to the availability of the necessary budgetary funds.
(Reporting by Klaus Lauer; Writing by Maria Martinez; Editing by Paul Simao)
