Author: Stacey Kuiper

Ryanair announces Bold German Shuffle: 14 New Routes and Unexpected Airport Moves

Well, well, well—look who’s back at it again: Ryanair. The airline that’s never met an aviation market it can’t shake up has just dropped a bombshell on Germany. Get ready for 14 new routes and a whopping 800,000 extra seats for summer 2025. But wait—there’s a twist! Forget about those fancy, well-known airports. Ryanair’s gone all-in on the underdogs of Germany’s airport scene. Say hello to Baden-Baden, Bremen, Lübeck, Münster, and Weeze. Heard of them? No? Yeah, neither did we.

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Highlights Ryanair announces Bold German Shuffle:

• 14 New Routes: From charming little airports to sun-soaked destinations
• The Underdog Airports: Karlsruhe/Baden-Baden and Weeze are now Ryanair’s new BFFs
• Big City Cuts: Berlin, Hamburg, and Dortmund are on the chopping block

Smaller Airports, Bigger Moves

Ryanair is taking a “small but mighty” approach, stationing new aircraft at Karlsruhe/Baden-Baden and Weeze airports while slashing flights from big cities like Berlin, Hamburg, and Dortmund. Translation: You might have to drive through the scenic German countryside before you even get to the runway. But hey, who needs Berlin’s hustle when you’ve got the quaint, hipster vibes of Lübeck? Plus, Lübeck’s getting its Ryanair comeback after a 10-year hiatus—talk about a long overdue reunion!

Why the Shift?

Ryanair’s CEO Michael O’Leary is basically saying, “Germany, your airport fees are out of control!” According to O’Leary, the costs are like trying to sell bratwurst for the price of caviar. Germany’s operational fees are higher than a lederhosen on a mountaintop, and Ryanair is over it. They’re taking their business elsewhere, and it’s honestly hard to blame them when Germany’s aviation market is still limping along at 79% of pre-pandemic levels, while the rest of Europe is bouncing back like a toddler on a trampoline.

Where Can You Fly?

Now, let’s talk routes. Ryanair’s got you covered if you’re craving some sun and sangria. From the new smaller airports, you can catch a flight to Gran Canaria, Seville, Malaga, Paphos, and—if you’re feeling fancy—London Stansted. So whether you’re after tapas, tan lines, or tea time, Ryanair’s got a seat with your name on it. Just make sure you’re not expecting to depart from Berlin… that ship has sailed.

And if you’re flying out of Lübeck, congrats! You’re now part of Ryanair history. They’re back in this town after a decade-long break. It’s like Ryanair’s version of a reunion tour—better late than never!

Cuts in the Big Leagues

While the smaller airports are living their best life, Ryanair’s cutting back in Germany’s big cities faster than you can say “Schadenfreude.” Hamburg? Dropping 60% of flights. Berlin? Slashed by 17%. Dortmund, Dresden, and Leipzig? Yeah, don’t bother looking for those on Ryanair’s map anymore. It’s like Ryanair’s doing its own version of Germany’s Next Top Model—only the underdogs made the cut.

Germany vs. Europe: The Low-Cost Battle

Here’s the real tea: while the rest of Europe has bounced back, Germany’s low-cost market is still lagging behind. Ryanair’s frustrated—low-cost flights now make up less than 30% of Germany’s market, compared to over 35% across the rest of Europe. Maybe it’s the fees, maybe it’s the vibe—who knows? But one thing’s for sure: Ryanair isn’t here to play nice.

What Does This Mean for Travelers?

For those of you who live around such lesser-known airports, rejoice! You are now a significant figure for Ryanair. But if you are located in Berlin or Hamburg…you better head back to the maps and confirm where Weeze is.

Do not forget the positive aspect. More routes come with more options, mean possibilities to purchase those €19.99 tickets to Heaven. Just don’t disregard the road leading to the airport, and grab some food on the journey. This is Ryanair so you will need plenty of sustenance for all the energy needed.

Final Boarding Call

Ryanair is as controversial as they are fascinating and if it’s cheap flying you are after, they understand how to keep things interesting. Adopting a new strategy with a leap toward regional airports certainly drives this point home. So, heave those bags onto your shoulder, welcome the adventure, open the google application, relax and let me handle “How far is Baden-Baden from anywhere”

Because with Ryanair, the journey is always part of the experience.