Lufthansa layoffs: Airline is the latest to cite an AI push as it cuts 4,000 jobs

"The airline group said it will eliminate a total of 4,000 jobs worldwide by 2030, the majority of which will be in Germany-with a focus on administration roles, not operational ones. "The Lufthansa Group is reviewing which activities will no longer be necessary in the future, for example due to duplication of work," the company said in a statement. "In particular, the profound changes brought about by digitalization and the increased use of AI will lead to greater efficiency in many areas and processes.""

"That restructuring will include the largest fleet modernization in the company's history. To that end, the Lufthansa Group expects to add more than 230 new aircraft by 2030, including 100 long-haul aircraft. The Cologne-based German carrier said it plans to invest in the growth of its core business, expanding locations and its international presence, including in Canada and Portugal. It also plans to extend its digital business models, as part of its "Ambition 2030" program."

"The airline also set new financial targets for 2028 to 2030, saying it expects its adjusted operating margin to reach 8-10% and over 2.5 billion euros in adjusted free cash flow per year. Lufthansa, like a number of companies including Klarna, Duolingo, and Salesforce, has recently turned to AI. Some of those companies even instituted "AI-first" workplaces as a way of slashing workforces toward greater profitability- but not without some missteps."

Lufthansa Group plans to eliminate 4,000 jobs worldwide by 2030, mainly in Germany and focused on administrative roles rather than operational positions. Digitalization and increased use of AI are expected to create redundancies and greater efficiency across many processes. The group plans the largest fleet modernization in its history with more than 230 new aircraft by 2030, including 100 long-haul jets. Investment will target core business growth, expanded international presence including Canada and Portugal, and extended digital business models under 'Ambition 2030'. Financial targets aim for an 8–10% adjusted operating margin and over €2.5 billion adjusted free cash flow per year.

Read at Fast Company