Lufthansa Group to Cut 4,000 Jobs by 2030 Using AI, Expects Higher Profits

Lufthansa Group has unveiled sweeping efficiency plans targeting administrative cost reduction, fleet modernization, and stronger profitability. Key among the changes: eliminating around 4,000 administrative roles globally by 2030—most of them in Germany—and accelerating adoption of AI, automation, and digitalization to streamline operations.

• The job cuts will primarily affect non-operational / administrative staff, not affecting cabin crew or pilots.
• Lufthansa raised its mid-term financial targets: the group now expects an adjusted operating margin of 8-10% from 2028, up from its previous aspirational goal of 8%
• It also aims to generate free cash flow exceeding €2.5 billion annually during this window.

• The Group is preparing its “largest-ever” fleet refresh, planning to add over 230 new aircraft by 2030—including 100 long-haul jets.
• Many of the older wide-body aircraft (four-engine types like Airbus A340-600, A340-300, and certain 747-400s) will be gradually retired, replaced by more fuel-efficient twin-engine and next-generation aircraft.
• The newer aircraft being ordered also aim for lower emissions; Lufthansa says these will burn up to 30% less fuel and emit less CO₂ compared to the older models.

Travel demand remains strong, and supply chains for aircraft and engines are tightening, keeping available aircraft—and thus capacity—relatively constrained. As a result, the airline group sees an opportunity to reinvest in premium products, improve margins, and sync capacity with profitable routes.

Simultaneously, inflationary pressures, labor costs, and regulatory demands (especially around emissions) are pushing airlines toward automation and digital tools. Lufthansa is using this moment to rationalize duplicative tasks across brands (Lufthansa, Swiss, Austrian, Brussels, Eurowings, ITA Airways) and fold operations where possible.