DFS, or Deutsche Flugsicherung GmbH, is the organization in charge of air traffic control across Germany. Located in Langen, near Frankfurt, it operates under private law and is fully owned by the Federal Republic of Germany. Established in 1993, DFS took over from the Federal Administration of Air Navigation Services (BFS), which was a government authority. To facilitate this transition, amendments were made to the German Constitution and the German Aviation Act (LuftVG) by the Bundestag.
In Germany, military and civil air traffic controllers collaborate closely. Since 1994, DFS has managed both civil and military air traffic during peacetime, with the exception of certain military aerodromes. This integration ensures efficient handling of air traffic throughout the country. DFS operates at 16 international airports and nine regional airports, represented by its subsidiary, The Tower Company. The core function of DFS revolves around controlling air traffic from various towers and control centers, making it a vital player in ensuring safe and orderly air travel.