After staff shortages during the summer disrupted flights, things have stabilized for the German airline Lufthansa, but Christina Foerster, a board member, warned publications owned by the Funke Media group that sick leave levels continue to be a problem.

After the COVID-19 outbreak curbed considerable travel, airlines all around Europe have had trouble keeping up with a robust resurgence in Christmas season demand. As a result of staff shortages, there were lengthy lines at many airports, which forced last-minute cancellations.

“The low point has passed. Flight operations are largely stabilized,” Foerster was quoted as telling Funke in an interview published on Sunday.

“Nevertheless, this summer we are dealing with a level of sick leave that is not easy to offset,” said Foerster, adding the situation remained challenging.

Most flight cancellations are affecting domestic routes where there are alternatives, she said. She added, however, that the situation would only improve significantly with the winter flight schedule at the end of October.

Lufthansa said on Thursday it expected demand for short-haul flights in Europe to drive growth at its passenger airlines this year and forecast a return to group operating profit for the full year.