The German government has authorised Emirates to operate long-haul flights from a fifth German airport, announced during the UAE president's state visit to Berlin. The UAE also pledged an additional €40 billion in investments. Industry groups and unions condemned the decision as a "sell-off" that could threaten jobs and domestic value creation, while Berlin's mayor welcomed the move as beneficial for economic development. Condor and Eurowings will also begin direct Dubai flights from the end of October.
Germany Clears Emirates To Fly From Fifth Airport Amid €40bn UAE Investment Pledge
FILE PHOTO - An Emirates Airlines Airbus A380 is approaching Frankfurt Airport. (is associated with: «'Sell-off': Industry slams German decision to expand Emirates flights») Florian Wiegand/dpa
The German government has authorised UAE carrier Emirates to operate long-haul services from a fifth German airport, a move announced during Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed al Nahyan's state visit to Berlin.
Officials said the decision accompanies a significant expansion in bilateral ties, with the UAE pledging an additional €40 billion in investments in Germany. The government confirmed that Emirates will be allowed to add a fifth German destination — supplementing its current stops in Munich, Dusseldorf, Frankfurt and Hamburg — with a defined number of connections. The administration did not explicitly name the airport, although Emirates has long sought access to Berlin's airport.
Industry Reaction
The announcement prompted strong criticism from domestic aviation groups and unions.
"A sell-off of German jobs and another blow to our companies,"
said Michael Engel, managing director of the BDF association, which represents German airlines. "We are appalled at how little consideration was given to the interests of German airlines and the employees of our companies in this decision."
The Verdi trade union called the move irresponsible, warning it could come "at the expense of domestic jobs, value creation and part of our critical infrastructure."
Local Support And Competition
Local politicians welcomed the step: Berlin Mayor Kai Wegner said the approval was positive for economic development and could strengthen business and tourism links between the cities.
Emirates will not be the only airline connecting Berlin (if that is the airport approved) with the UAE. Condor and Eurowings are scheduled to launch direct services to Dubai from the end of October, adding competition on the route.
What This Means
Proponents argue the expanded access could boost trade, tourism and investment, particularly given the concurrent €40 billion pledge. Critics counter that granting additional long-haul rights to a foreign carrier risks undermining domestic airlines, putting jobs and local value chains under pressure. The debate highlights the tension between attracting foreign investment and protecting national industry interests.
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