Lufthansa Group Cuts 4,000 Jobs Due to AI and Digital Innovations

The Lufthansa Group has announced plans to reduce its workforce by approximately 4,000 positions by 2030. The company attributes this decision to “profound changes” driven by advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and digitalization.

During its Capital Markets Day held in Munich on September 29, 2025, Lufthansa indicated that it is currently assessing which roles may become obsolete as part of its strategy to enhance efficiency.

On September 12, 2025, the Lufthansa Group also revealed plans for its subsidiary airlines, indicating that starting in 2026, these entities will experience a loss of some decision-making authority as the company moves towards centralizing certain operations.

This restructuring will involve adjustments across various areas, including organizational frameworks, financial management, and collaborative efforts across the group.

With this latest announcement, Lufthansa is pursuing closer “integrated cooperation” among its primary brands: Lufthansa, SWISS, Austrian Airlines, and Brussels Airlines.

The need for these changes has been underscored by concerns over “duplication of work.”

A spokesperson for the Lufthansa Group commented, “The profound changes brought about by digitalization and the increased use of artificial intelligence will lead to greater efficiency in many areas and processes.”

The majority of job reductions are expected to occur in Germany, primarily affecting administrative roles rather than operational positions.

Other Announcements at Capital Markets Day

Lufthansa Group anticipates a significant rise in profitability by the end of the decade, setting new ambitious financial targets for the medium term.

The company aims for an Adjusted EBIT margin of 8-10% from 2028 to 2030, an Adjusted ROCE (Return on Capital Employed) before taxes of 15-20%, and an Adjusted Free Cash Flow exceeding €2.5 billion ($2.9 billion) annually.

Moreover, Lufthansa plans to bolster its fleet with the addition of over 230 new aircraft by 2030, which will include 100 long-haul planes.

The group also intends to expand its active membership in the loyalty program “Miles & More” by 50% by 2030.