It was a brief pleasure: Condor is removing the Mallorca connection from Rostock-Laage from its 2025 summer flight schedule, although the route was only introduced in 2024 - full of hope of bringing sun-seeking North Germans directly to paradise. But now the airline is backing out. Low capacity utilization and rising location costs have put an end to the dream of a direct flight.
An airport without wings
Rostock-Laage, with its spacious passenger terminal and state-of-the-art infrastructure, continues to fall short of its potential. While other airports are growing, things are at a standstill here. Operating two check-in desks when no one is checking in sounds like a tragedy with an announcement.
Condor's decision highlights the challenges facing many regional airports in Germany. Rising levies and taxes are making the operation of small locations increasingly unprofitable. "Flights within Germany and from smaller airports are almost impossible to operate economically," explained Condor CEO Jens Bischof. A sideswipe at politicians who are increasing the pressure with climate protection measures and aviation taxes.
Mallorca remains a dream destination - just harder to reach
The Germans' favorite island is not the problem; it will remain the most popular destination in the summer flight schedule in 2025. Condor will continue to fly from Berlin and Hamburg to Palma, even with increased frequency. But for northern lights who prefer to take off from the regional airport, things are getting uncomfortable. The alternative? Kilometre-long car journeys to the major hubs - ironically, hardly a benefit for the carbon footprint.
A mirror for the industry
Not only Rostock-Laage is struggling. Condor has also canceled 1,000 connections in Hamburg. Ryanair is withdrawing completely from several German airports such as Dortmund and Leipzig. Not only location costs are to blame, but also an increasingly regulated aviation policy. The small airports are struggling to survive, while Mallorca continues to maintain its leading position as a tourist destination.
A future without regional airports?
The case of Rostock-Laage shows that regional airports are having a harder time than ever. Politicians want to reduce domestic German flights, major airlines such as Condor and Ryanair are pulling out - and the travelers? They have to take detours to reach their dream destinations such as Mallorca.
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