Berlin – September 15, 2026 -- Germany's air traffic tax will drain an estimated €2.06 billion from the aviation sector in 2027, according to the federal budget draft reviewed by airport association ADV, even as the government earmarks fresh funds for regional flight safety and ground electrification.
Federal budget allocates €50 million to secure air traffic control at 45 regional airports
The 2027 draft maintains €50 million in funding for air traffic control services at smaller airports, unchanged from 2026. ADV Managing Director Ralph Beisel said the allocation benefits 45 airports nationwide that fall outside the remit of Deutsche Flugsicherung, calling it a signal of state responsibility for regional aviation infrastructure.
Ground power and PCA electrification program receives €35 million through 2029
A funding program for ground power and Preconditioned Air (PCA) systems will receive €35 million for 2026 through 2029, supporting airport apron electrification tied to climate targets. ADV flagged a gap in vehicle fleet transition funding: support for trucks and special vehicles lapsed in 2024 and should be reinstated, with explicit extension to airport-specific vehicles lacking road registration.
Air traffic tax revenue of €2.06 billion threatens competitiveness against European rivals
Beisel warned that the tax burden erodes Germany's standing in a competitive European market for airlines, routes and capacity. He said passenger numbers at German airports are set to decline further in 2026 from an already low base, as airlines increasingly relocate aircraft to other European markets. Beisel called the €2 billion levy "a millstone around the neck of German airports" and urged lawmakers to cut site costs to protect the value of flight connections for economic growth.
Drone detection systems at major airports require permanent budget financing
ADV welcomed the federal government's move to equip large commercial airports with drone detection and defense systems, describing counter-drone measures as a sovereign security function. Beisel said procurement, operation and maintenance of these systems now require secured, ongoing financing within the federal budget as budget deliberations move to the Bundestag's finance committee.