On 1 April, 2011, airberlin will completely integrate LTU International Airways, which was acquired in August 2007. “This integration allows us to create the required preconditions to eliminate double structures, simplify work routines and increase the overall efficiency of the operation. We not only expect noticeable savings, but also further integration of all employees, which is an important step for future challenges such as our planned membership in the worldwide air travel alliance oneworld®”, said Joachim Hunold, CEO of airberlin.
The consolidation of flight operations is one of the key elements of the integration: As of 1 April, 2011, there will only be one flight operation under the AOC (Aircraft Operation Certificate) of airberlin. The second important element of the LTU integration is the consolidation of all airberlin group technical operations (Berlin, Düsseldorf and Cologne) under the new company “airberlin technik GmbH” headquarted in Berlin. This consolidation will ensure better organisation and communication, as well as additional process-related improvements. airberlin technik will provide almost all technical aviation services. Its 1,700 employees work at 17 locations throughout Germany and internationally in the field of base and line maintenance. In addition to airberlin, its customers also include other well-known German and international airlines.
The LTU integration is part of the “Accelerate 2012″ programme. This efficiency program is based on the pillars of revenue improvement, capacity adjustment and cost reduction.
airberlin is Germany’s second largest airline. The company has 8,900 employees. In 2010 alone, airberlin received more than 10 awards for service and quality. The fleet includes 169 planes with an average age of 5 years. Consequently, airberlin operates one of the most modern fleets in Europe. Its modern jets, with their economical consumption of kerosene, provide for a sustainable reduction of pollution in air transport. As one of the most important airlines in Europe, airberlin currently flies to 163 destinations in 39 countries. In 2010, the airline carried 33.6 million passengers. airberlin has signed a declaration to join the worldwide air travel alliance oneworld®. Full membership is anticipated for the beginning of 2012. airberlin has been offering flights on a joint flight number with American Airlines and Finnair since November 2010.
