Eurowings, one of Germany's major budget carriers and a subsidiary of Lufthansa, is cancelling flights and examining whether to place some of its employees on Kurzarbeit — Germany's well-known short-time working scheme. The airline points to rising kerosene prices, which it links to the Iran war, as the driving force behind these measures. For expats in Germany, this news matters on two fronts: as frequent travellers relying on affordable air connections, and potentially as workers or people who know workers in the aviation industry.
Eurowings has announced it is reducing its flight schedule and is actively reviewing the possibility of introducing Kurzarbeit for its workforce. The airline attributes the pressure to sharply higher fuel costs, which it says are a consequence of the ongoing Iran war raising global kerosene prices.
Flight cancellations at a major carrier inevitably ripple outward — affecting passengers who have booked trips to visit family, attend work events, or travel home. Eurowings operates routes across Europe and serves many German airports, making its schedule changes relevant to a broad cross-section of travellers based in Germany.
Kurzarbeit is a German government scheme that allows companies facing economic difficulties to temporarily reduce their employees' working hours rather than lay them off. The state — via the Bundesagentur für Arbeit — compensates workers for a portion of their lost income during the reduced hours period. It is one of Germany's most widely recognised labour market tools, used extensively during the COVID-19 pandemic and in other economic downturns.
For employees at Eurowings, the introduction of Kurzarbeit would mean reduced working hours and, in turn, reduced pay — offset partially by state support. For expats working in aviation or at Eurowings specifically, this is significant news. It is worth checking your employment contract and understanding how Kurzarbeit would affect your income and your residence permit situation if your legal status in Germany is tied to your employment.
If you regularly fly with Eurowings — whether for work trips, visits home, or leisure — flight cancellations could disrupt your plans. It is advisable to monitor your booking, check your email for notifications from the airline, and review your travel insurance if you have it.
When a flight is cancelled by the airline, passengers in the EU generally have rights under EU air passenger rights regulations. These typically include the right to a refund or rebooking. For specific guidance, the Luftfahrt-Bundesamt (Germany's civil aviation authority) or a consumer advice centre such as the Verbraucherzentrale can provide information on your options — look up their official contact details online.
Not all flights are being cancelled — Eurowings is reducing its schedule, but not shutting down operations. Monitor your booking through the Eurowings app or website and watch for email notifications. If your flight is cancelled, the airline is required to inform you and offer alternatives.
Under Kurzarbeit, your employer reduces your working hours and you receive a state benefit from the Bundesagentur für Arbeit to partially replace your lost earnings. The exact amount depends on your individual circumstances. Speak with your employer's HR department or a works council representative for details specific to your situation.
This depends on your specific Aufenthaltstitel and its conditions. Some residence permits require you to maintain a minimum level of employment or income. If your status could be affected by a reduction in working hours or pay, it is strongly advisable to consult your Ausländerbehörde or an immigration lawyer before any changes take effect.
EU air passenger rights rules apply to flights departing from EU airports. These rules set out what airlines must offer passengers in the event of a cancellation, including refund or rebooking options. A consumer advice organisation such as the Verbraucherzentrale can explain your rights in plain language — look up their official website for free guidance.
Eurowings's decision to cut flights and explore Kurzarbeit reflects broader economic pressure in the aviation sector. If you are a passenger, keep an eye on your bookings and know your rights. If you work in aviation and Kurzarbeit becomes a reality at your employer, seek advice early — both from your HR department and, if your residency situation is tied to your employment, from your Ausländerbehörde or an immigration specialist. Staying informed now puts you in a much better position if changes come.
Source: tagesschau
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