Beginning January 2025, the Lufthansa Group will introduce an Environmental Cost Surcharge on all outbound flights from select European countries. This initiative is a direct response to new regulatory frameworks aimed at reducing airline emissions and promoting sustainable aviation practices.
Key driving factors for this surcharge include:
- Mandatory use of at least 2% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) for flights departing from European Union (EU) member states, effective January 2025.
- Revised EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) requirements.
- Compliance with international programs such as the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA).
This environmental fee will be levied on all tickets for flights operated by Lufthansa Group carriers departing from the 27 EU nations, the United Kingdom, Norway, and Switzerland.
The surcharge amount is determined by route and fare class, with fees ranging between €1 and €72. Travelers booking from June 26, 2024, for journeys commencing January 1, 2025 or later, will see this charge itemized during the booking process on all Lufthansa Group airline platforms.
Lufthansa Group continues to channel significant investment into advanced technologies and cross-industry partnerships, furthering its commitment to sustainable aviation. The group is an active participant in global climate research and remains at the forefront of environmental stewardship. Nevertheless, executives emphasize that the escalating costs of regulatory compliance cannot be absorbed by the airline group alone. This surcharge is designed to partially offset these anticipated additional costs in 2025.
With a clear vision for sustainability, the Lufthansa Group has set a target to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. By 2030, the group aims to reduce net CO₂ emissions by 50% compared to 2019, through a mix of emissions reductions and offsetting strategies. Their multi-pronged approach includes:
- Accelerated fleet renewal with next-generation, fuel-efficient aircraft.
- Ongoing optimization of operational and flight procedures.
- Greater reliance on Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF).
- Customizable options for both leisure and corporate travelers to reduce the environmental impact of their air journeys or cargo shipments.
The Lufthansa Group encompasses Lufthansa Airlines, SWISS, Austrian Airlines, Eurowings, and Brussels Airlines.
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