Lufthansa Set to Unveil New First Class Cabins
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German national carrier, Lufthansa announced that it will overhaul its first-class cabins with sleek, contemporary interiors at a cost believed to be in excess of US $200 million.
One of the few global carriers not to cut back on its first-class seating, the makeover will be unveiled when Lufthansa takes delivery of its first A-380 aircraft on May 19, 2010.
With interiors featuring high-gloss wood veneers, brown and beige leather seats and state-of-the-art in-flight technology, the refurbishment will include leather desks and Egyptian cotton duvets, a look that clearly avoids the colourful and futuristic trends that have been adopted by many international carriers.
Though industry pundits raised eyebrows when British Airways announced their extensive first-class cabin refurbishments during the height of the economic downturn, many analysts are now predicting a strong rebound in demand for premium travel as the global economy begins to strengthen.
The redesign, to be rolled out on more than 80 long-haul routes over the next three years, will also help Lufthansa thwart off the ever-growing premium competition especially from Asia and the UAE. But unlike Singapore Airlines and Emirates, which collectively offer their discerning passengers fully enclosed first-class suites and onboard shower cabins, the German carrier will focus on luring more customers into their premium space at a more competitive fare.
Lufthansa’s first-class lounges have equally been revamped to complement the passenger’s onboard experience.
“It’s great that Lufthansa is focusing on revamping its classic premium service, which so many first-class passengers are accustomed to and still want to maintain at the right price, especially at a time when every dollar spent is accounted for,” said Australian businessman and frequent premium traveller, Stuart Brown.
According to the International Air Transportation Association, premium travel has increased by 10 per cent from mid-2009 lows though the front end and upper decks have yet to rebound to early 2008 levels. Additionally, the closure of Europe’s airspace earlier in the month will likely impact the promising forecasts set for the next fiscal quarter.
Written by: Jill Walsh
