Friedrich Merz's Extensive Use of German Air Force Transport Raises Eyebrows

In a recent analysis, CDU leader Friedrich Merz has been reported to utilize the German Air Force's transport services more frequently than any other parliamentary faction leader during the current legislative period. According to information obtained by the RedaktionsNetzwerk Deutschland (RND) in response to an inquiry from Sören Pellmann, a member of the Left Party, Merz has taken advantage of these services eleven times in the past year alone. Destinations included Brussels, Paris, Tel Aviv, and Rzeszów in Poland, which serves as a transit point for travel to Kyiv, Ukraine.

In contrast, other faction leaders who possess rights to the same transport services reportedly did not use them at all over the past year. Over the course of this legislative term, Merz has made a total of 30 trips utilizing the German Air Force's transport capabilities. The only other faction leader to use these services, aside from Merz, was Rolf Mützenich from the SPD, who took a flight to Rzeszów as part of a trip to Ukraine.

Pellmann criticized Merz's travel habits, suggesting that such a pattern of spending taxpayer money irresponsibly in opposition raises concerns about his potential future leadership as Chancellor. He implied that Merz's actions indicate a lack of responsibility.

In defense of Merz, the Union faction clarified that he used the transport services for a limited number of essential trips to significant European partners. A spokesperson emphasized that these flights were conducted in accordance with the guidelines governing the use of the Air Force's transport aircraft.

Friedrich Merz, an avid pilot in his personal life, has previously stirred controversy for his travel choices. For instance, his arrival via private plane at the wedding of former Federal Finance Minister Christian Lindner on the North Sea island of Sylt in July 2022 was met with criticism. Additionally, Merz faced backlash from members of the Left and Green parties for his participation in a flight on a Eurofighter jet from the Bundeswehr last June.