It’s been a big year for Lufthansa, with the German carrier continuing to roll out its new premium economy cabins, launched last year, the first time in 35 years it has had a new product.
The premium economy cabin offers considerably more space and comfort as well as many additional product features. For one, the free baggage allowance is double that allowed in economy class. Lounges can be accessed for a fee. On board, each passenger is greeted with a welcome drink and upmarket amenity kit. Meals are served on china tableware, and there is an extensive inflight entertainment program.
Australian customers can experience Lufthansa’s premium economy class to Germany from a choice of hubs; Hong Kong, Singapore, Beijing, Seoul, Tokyo, Delhi, Shanghai, Nagoya, Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, and Mumbai. Lufthansa offers a value for money mixed class fare from Australia allowing customers to book economy class to Asia with one of many interline partners and fly in the new premium economy cabin long-haul to Europe.
Karl Ulrich Garnadt, chief executive officer of Lufthansa German Airlines said that premium economy was an important part of the “biggest product upgrade in Lufthansa’s history”.
“Booking levels to date have significantly exceeded our expectations”, said Garnadt.
“This shows that we are striking a chord with customers with our new offering. As well as cost-conscious business travellers, we’re also attracting the rapidly growing target group of leisure travellers who don’t want to skimp on comforts during their holidays.”
Lufthansa is also working intently on upgrades to its first and business classes on board its long-haul aircraft. The new Lufthansa business class seat boasts a horizontal sleeping surface measuring almost 2m in length. At the press of a button, it converts into a comfortable bed. The innovative V-shaped seating arrangement, which almost doubles the distance between two seats at shoulder level, giving passengers greater privacy. There are also generous storage spaces; and greater inflight entertainment system options.
Lufthansa has also extended its position as an innovation leader for digital services. From early 2016, Lufthansa will be the first network airline in Europe to offer broadband on board its short and medium-haul flights in addition to long-haul flights.
