The 'AAA' ratings on DFS Deutsche Flugsicherung GmbH (DFS) are based on the group's stand-alone credit profile (SACP), which Standard&Poor's Ratings Services assesses at 'A', as well as on our opinion that there is an "almost certain" likelihood that the German Federal government would provide timely and sufficient extraordinary support to DFS in the event of financial distress. In accordance with our criteria for government-related entities (GREs), our view of an "almost certain" likelihood of extraordinary government support is based on our assessment of the group's: "Critical" role, based on our view that DFS civil and military air traffic control (ATC) operations are of utmost strategic importance to Germany's economy, public safety, and defense capability, and "Integral" link
