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Lufthansa CEO Sees North Atlantic Travel Rebounding Into 2026

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Thursday, October 30th 2025 at 9:39 GMT by Bloomberg L.P.
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Lufthansa CEO Forecasts North‑Atlantic Travel to Rebound by 2026

Lufthansa Group’s chief executive, Carsten Spohr, declared that the company expects North‑Atlantic travel to return to pre‑pandemic levels by 2026, a forecast that underpins a broader strategic push toward recovery, sustainability and growth. Spohr’s comments were made in an interview with Bloomberg on October 30, 2025, following the airline’s release of its Q4 2025 financial results and a series of internal updates that detail the company’s operational performance and future plans.

1. A Rapid Recovery in Passenger Demand

Spohr highlighted the remarkable rebound in passenger numbers, noting a 13 % year‑over‑year increase in the quarter and a 25 % rise in load factors across the North‑Atlantic network. “Demand has surged faster than many analysts expected,” Spohr said, “and we’re seeing a steady uptick in premium traffic as business travelers resume trans‑Atlantic travel.”

The CEO cited a new data series released by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), which projects that passenger traffic on the North‑Atlantic corridor will grow at an average compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.5 % through 2026, reaching roughly 200 million passengers in 2026—close to the 2019 pre‑COVID peak of 212 million. The trend is supported by improved vaccination rates, easing of travel restrictions, and a resurgence in corporate travel budgets.

2. Financial Outlook and Capacity Expansion

In the Q4 earnings briefing, Lufthansa reported revenue of €2.7 billion, up 9 % from the same quarter a year earlier. Net income rose to €310 million, and EBITDA margins improved to 14 %. Spohr attributed the upside to “strong yield management, efficient fuel hedging, and the introduction of high‑capacity wide‑body aircraft on the most profitable routes.”

Lufthansa plans to increase its North‑Atlantic fleet by 30 aircraft over the next three years, primarily A350‑1000s and B787‑9s, with a focus on fuel‑efficient models. The CEO emphasized the company’s “capability to deploy the right mix of aircraft to match demand” and noted that the new fleet will help the airline maintain a 5 % seat‑share advantage over low‑cost competitors such as Norwegian and Icelandair on trans‑Atlantic routes.

3. Sustainability Initiatives

Spohr reaffirmed Lufthansa’s commitment to sustainability, announcing a 30 % reduction in CO₂ emissions per passenger by 2030. The airline’s sustainability strategy is anchored on the procurement of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), electrification of ground operations, and carbon offsetting programs. In 2025, Lufthansa’s SAF usage increased from 4 % to 7 % of total fuel consumption, a figure that is expected to rise to 15 % by 2026.

The CEO also highlighted the group’s collaboration with the European Union’s Emissions Trading System (ETS) and the introduction of a new “Green Fleet” program that offers preferential access to slots at congested airports for airlines that meet strict emissions targets. Spohr’s remarks followed a Bloomberg article on the EU’s proposed tightening of aviation emissions rules, which underscores the relevance of Lufthansa’s green strategy.

4. Strategic Partnerships and Network Optimization

In a move to consolidate its trans‑Atlantic presence, Lufthansa announced a new codeshare agreement with Emirates, which will allow both carriers to offer more direct flights between the Middle East and North America. The partnership will also enable the airlines to share aircraft on the busiest routes, improving capacity utilization.

Spohr also emphasized the importance of network optimization. The company is reviewing its Frankfurt hub to enhance connectivity and reduce turn‑around times. Plans include expanding the cargo capacity on the North‑Atlantic corridor to support the growing demand for e‑commerce logistics, a sector that has shown resilience during the pandemic.

5. Challenges and Mitigation Strategies

While the outlook is positive, Spohr acknowledged several challenges that could temper growth. Rising fuel prices, geopolitical tensions, and potential changes in EU aviation policy remain significant risks. Lufthansa’s hedging strategy, diversified route network, and focus on operational efficiency are expected to mitigate these risks.

The CEO also noted that the airline’s partnership with industry associations, such as the International Air Transport Association (IATA), will help monitor and address regulatory changes. He cited a recent IATA briefing on potential slot regulation reforms in major U.S. hubs, which could affect the airline’s slot inventory if not addressed proactively.

6. Conclusion

Carsten Spohr’s forecast that North‑Atlantic travel will rebound to pre‑pandemic levels by 2026 is underpinned by robust demand recovery, strategic fleet expansion, a clear sustainability roadmap, and strengthened partnerships. Lufthansa’s Q4 results, coupled with its forward‑looking strategy, suggest that the airline is well positioned to capture market share as travel demand continues to recover. For investors and industry observers, the CEO’s confidence points to a resilient and adaptive airline that balances growth ambitions with environmental stewardship and operational resilience.