Lufthansa Executive Counters Concerns Over Trump's Immigration Policy

Fri 16th May, 2025

In a recent statement, a member of Lufthansa's executive board has addressed rising concerns regarding the impact of former President Donald Trump's immigration policies on international travel. Despite fears of a decline in tourist visits to the United States during Trump's second term, Dieter Vranckx, the board member, has provided a different perspective.

Vranckx highlighted that Lufthansa has conducted approximately 5,700 flights to the U.S. since January 1, 2025, reflecting an 8% increase compared to the same timeframe the previous year. During this period, the airline has transported around 1.3 million passengers. This data contradicts reports from the International Trade Administration, which noted a 12% decrease in overall visitors to the U.S. from abroad, including a 28% drop in tourists from Germany.

Concerns have been raised regarding a potential connection between the decline in visitors and Trump's stricter immigration policies. However, Vranckx pointed out that statistics from Lufthansa indicate a slight decrease in the number of passengers denied entry at U.S. borders, suggesting that the situation may not be as dire as portrayed in the media.

Recent reports have drawn attention to individual cases of German tourists facing challenges upon entry into the U.S., including detention and deportation. Vranckx refuted claims that such incidents represent a trend, emphasizing that the majority of denied entries stem from incomplete travel documentation or discrepancies during interactions with U.S. border officials.

In light of these developments, the German Foreign Office updated its travel advisories for the U.S., warning that prior convictions, false statements regarding the purpose of travel, or minor overstays could lead to detention or deportation upon entry or exit. Other countries, including Finland, Denmark, Portugal, and Canada, have similarly adjusted their travel advisories.

Despite these changing advisories, Vranckx remains optimistic about future travel trends, asserting that there have not been any significant changes in U.S. border control practices that would adversely affect travelers. He stressed the importance of relying on verified facts, particularly amid a flood of information that can breed uncertainty.

Overall, Lufthansa's positive outlook on its operations to the U.S. contrasts sharply with the more cautious narratives circulating in various media outlets. As the airline continues to facilitate increased travel between Germany and the U.S., it remains to be seen how policies and perceptions will evolve in the coming months.


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