Lufthansa Group Update: Flight Changes, Starlink Wi-Fi Expansion, and Operational Strategy in 2026

Frankfurt, Germany – January 15, 2026:
The Lufthansa Group, Europe’s largest airline group, has announced key operational updates and strategic developments as it responds to geopolitical challenges while continuing to invest in passenger experience and digital transformation.

Lufthansa Group Suspends Overnight Flights to Tel Aviv

The Lufthansa Group has temporarily suspended overnight flights to Tel Aviv due to heightened security concerns in the Middle East. Flights to and from Israel’s Ben Gurion Airport will operate only during daytime hours until at least January 19, 2026.

The decision affects all major airlines under the group, including:

• Lufthansa

• SWISS

• Austrian Airlines

• Brussels Airlines

• Eurowings

The move is aimed at ensuring crew safety and operational flexibility amid ongoing regional tensions and airspace disruptions. Passengers affected by cancellations or schedule changes are being offered rebooking or refund options.

Middle East Airspace Disruptions Impact Operations

Recent temporary closures of Iranian airspace and escalating regional tensions have forced several global airlines, including Lufthansa, to reroute or adjust flight schedules. German aviation authorities have advised airlines to exercise caution while operating in parts of the Middle East, highlighting ongoing uncertainty for international air travel.

Despite the challenges, Lufthansa Group stated it continues to monitor the situation closely and will adjust operations as required to maintain safety and reliability.

Lufthansa Group to Install Starlink High-Speed Wi-Fi Across Fleet

In a major passenger-focused upgrade, the Lufthansa Group has confirmed plans to equip its entire fleet of around 850 aircraft with Starlink high-speed satellite internet.

Key highlights of the Starlink partnership:

• Rollout begins in 2026

• Full fleet installation expected by 2029

• Available across short-haul and long-haul aircraft

• High-speed internet suitable for streaming, messaging, and remote work

This initiative positions Lufthansa Group as one of the first major airline groups in Europe to adopt next-generation satellite connectivity across all its airlines.

Strategic Focus on Efficiency and Growth

Alongside operational updates, Lufthansa Group continues to focus on cost efficiency and long-term profitability. The airline group has previously announced plans to reduce administrative roles by 2030 through automation and digitalisation, while maintaining service quality and network expansion.

For the summer 2026 schedule, Lufthansa Group plans to operate over 14,000 weekly flights to approximately 330 destinations worldwide, reflecting strong global travel demand.

Outlook for Lufthansa Group

Despite geopolitical uncertainty and airspace challenges, Lufthansa Group remains focused on:

• Passenger safety

• Operational resilience

• Digital innovation

• Global network expansion

Industry analysts view the combination of short-term operational caution and long-term technology investment as critical to the group’s competitiveness in 2026 and beyond.