An almost certain likelihood that DFS Deutsche Flugsicherung GmbH (DFS) would receive timely and sufficient extraordinary support from the German government in the event of financial distress. A critical public policy role for and an integral link with Germany's government because it provides a key public service--civil and military air traffic control--to its 100% owner, the German government. DFS is a monopoly service provider in a supportive regulatory environment. The rating is contingent on the government's creditworthiness and necessity of national air traffic control (ATC) service for military and civilian flights over Germany. The ratings on DFS reflect our view of its critical role for its 100% owner, Germany, and its integral link with the government, under our criteria for
