The Lufthansa Group is nearing a decision on a significant aircraft purchase that will influence its long-haul fleet into the 2030s. The airline is in advanced negotiations with Airbus and Boeing for a new widebody order, with final approval expected within weeks. The new aircraft are projected to arrive in the early to mid-2030s, supporting future fleet expansion and renewal strategies.
At the Airlines for Europe summit in Brussels, Lufthansa CEO Carsten Spohr confirmed that the airline is considering adding models such as the Airbus A350 and Boeing 787/777X to its fleet. The airline has already positioned the A350-1000 and 777-9 as its flagship aircraft, while the Boeing 787-9 and A350-900 serve more versatile, mid-sized long-haul markets within the Group.
This upcoming order is expected not only to replace aging aircraft but also to facilitate growth at high-yield hubs like Frankfurt and Munich. The carrier has a substantial backlog of aircraft orders, including units of the A350-1000, which are yet to be delivered, and more Boeing 787s, which are viewed as a balanced option for capacity, range, and efficiency.
Existing fleet modernization includes planning for the retirement of older models such as the Airbus A340 and Boeing 747, delayed by COVID-19 supply chain issues. These changes aim to improve operational efficiency, onboard products, and overall brand perception. The airline faces the challenge of securing delivery slots while navigating the risks associated with demand forecasts and ongoing industry uncertainties.
