Germany's Air Traffic Mixed: Recovery, Military Surge, and Data Glitch
German Air Traffic Control (GATC) has reported a mixed picture of air traffic in Germany from January to August. While overall traffic increased and delays decreased, a significant rise in military flights due to the Ukraine conflict was noted. A nationwide data transmission issue in early October caused disruptions.
Air traffic in Germany showed signs of recovery, with a 5.2 percent increase in flights compared to the same period last year. The busiest day was July 15, with 9,979 flight movements. However, traffic volume remained around 10 percent below pre-COVID-19 levels in 2019.
GATC's share of delays decreased by 30 percent, averaging 50 seconds per flight. The organization also improved route efficiency, with a cumulative average deviation from the shortest route of 0.95 percent. This improvement was partly due to continuous training of air traffic controllers during the COVID-19 crisis, helping to mitigate anticipated staff shortages.
Military flight movements and overflights in German airspace significantly increased due to the war in Ukraine and resulting airspace closures. The Austrian Bundesheer's expansion and modernization of its helicopter and transport aircraft fleet contributed to this rise, although specific data on the proportion of military aviation relative to total aviation in Germany is not available. GATC accounted for a small part of total delays, with more than 50 percent caused by airlines and 12 percent by airport operations.
Despite the increase in military flights and a nationwide data transmission issue in early October causing disruptions, GATC managed to reduce delays and improve route efficiency during the summer months. The organization's proactive approach to staff training helped mitigate potential shortages. As air traffic continues to recover, GATC's performance will be crucial in maintaining smooth and safe operations.
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