Lufthansa Group has revealed ambitious plans to recruit approximately 10,000 new employees in 2025 as the company aims to strengthen its workforce across various departments. The German airline, which operates globally with around 100,000 employees in 90 countries, is focusing on bolstering its operations despite recent labor-related challenges.
The hiring campaign will include positions for 2,000 flight attendants, 1,400 ground operations staff, 1,300 technical experts, 800 pilots, and 1,200 administrative employees, with more than half of the new hires expected to be based in Germany. Lufthansa subsidiaries, including Eurowings and Austrian Airlines, will also participate in the recruitment drive, offering hundreds of additional job opportunities.
The company’s efforts to expand its workforce come after a turbulent year marked by labor disputes, which reportedly cost Lufthansa around €450 million ($463 million) in 2024. Rising competition and increased operational costs further pressured the airline, prompting the need for operational adjustments through its ongoing “Efficiency Program Turnaround.”
Despite these challenges, Lufthansa remains focused on growth. Over the past three years, the airline has hired 30,000 new employees.
Lufthansa Group’s Chief Human Resources Officer, Michael Niggemann, highlighted the company’s long-term vision in a statement, noting that “this recruitment drive will not only enhance our operational strength but also prepare us for the future of aviation.”
The announcement comes at a time when Germany’s broader economic landscape is seeing widespread layoffs and restructuring across industries, particularly in manufacturing and technology sectors. Lufthansa’s plans contrast with these trends, showcasing confidence in aviation’s recovery and long-term demand.
However, the airline’s expansion follows a year of multiple labor strikes and negotiations, which affected flight schedules and profitability. Employee unions have been vocal about pay raises, better working conditions, and job security, creating tension during contract negotiations.
In 2024, Lufthansa received 350,000 job applications. However, as competition for skilled workers intensifies, Lufthansa will need to address lingering concerns from employees while remaining attractive to new talent.
The recruitment plans indicate Lufthansa’s strategic focus on post-pandemic recovery and preparation for growing demand in international travel. The airline also plans to invest in training programs, particularly for student pilots, to ensure long-term workforce development.
