Tourexpi
Lufthansa is moving ahead with the modernisation of
its long-haul fleet, launching a comprehensive retrofit programme that will see
its Airbus A380 aircraft equipped with a new Business Class cabin. The work
will begin in early February at Elbe Flugzeugwerke in Dresden, marking the
start of one of the most extensive cabin upgrade initiatives in the airline’s
history.
As part of the programme, all eight Airbus A380s in
Lufthansa’s fleet will be fitted with new Business Class seats, enhancing
comfort and privacy on board the airline’s largest aircraft. Further retrofits
across the long-haul fleet, including the Boeing 747-8 and Airbus A350-900,
will follow in close succession.
New Business Class standard on the A380
The upgraded A380 Business Class will feature seats
from manufacturer Thompson, each offering direct aisle access. With a seat
width of 58 centimetres, a bed length of at least two metres, Bluetooth
connectivity and flexible privacy partitions, the new product is designed to
significantly raise the onboard premium experience.
Lufthansa benefits from an existing certification for
the new cabin, allowing the retrofit to proceed without lengthy approval
processes. As a result, passengers are expected to experience the new Business
Class on the A380 within a short timeframe.
Focus on customer experience in Munich
“Lufthansa operates the only strong A380 fleet in the
EU, stationed at our five-star airport,” said Heiko Reitz, Hub Manager Munich
at Lufthansa Airlines. “The retrofit underscores our commitment to providing a
top flight experience on the long-haul aircraft that is so popular with our
customers. The new premium seats offer more privacy and significantly more
comfort than before. We look forward to offering our passengers this enhanced
travel experience in Business Class starting in April.”
Once completed, each Airbus A380 will feature 68 new
Business Class seats. The aircraft will also continue to offer eight First
Class seats, 52 seats in Premium Economy and 371 seats in Economy, maintaining
its status as the largest long-haul aircraft in Lufthansa’s fleet.
Retrofit timeline through 2027
In addition to the cabin upgrade, the A380s will
undergo routine maintenance during their stay at Elbe Flugzeugwerke. The first
aircraft, “Mike-Charly”, is scheduled to return to Munich in April and re-enter
regular service shortly thereafter.
Lufthansa expects the retrofit of all eight A380
aircraft to be completed by mid-2027, further reinforcing the airline’s
long-haul offering with modernised cabins and a renewed focus on premium
comfort.
Image Credit: © Lufthansa Group
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