Discover Airlines Unveils New Airbus A330-300 Cabins with Direct Aisle Access

German leisure airline Discover Airlines is making a substantial investment.

This is the largest single investment in its company history. The focus is a complete cabin refurbishment for its entire long-haul fleet. This fleet includes 16 Airbus A330-300 aircraft. The goal is to elevate the airline to a fully established premium leisure carrier standard. This move aligns the airline more closely with the premium offerings of the larger Lufthansa Group.

The New Ocean Blue Cabin Concept

The new product is branded the “Ocean Blue” cabin concept. It introduces the latest product generation across all three travel classes. This includes Economy, Premium Economy, and Business Class. The first retrofitted aircraft will enter service in April 2027. The entire modernization program is scheduled for completion by mid-2028.

Business Class and Suites

A key feature is the new Business Class cabin. It will feature a 1-2-1 configuration. This layout guarantees every passenger direct aisle access, a crucial modern standard. The seats convert into a fully lie-flat bed, approximately two meters long. They also offer increased privacy and storage space.

A completely new product is the Business Class Suite. These suites are located in the front row. They feature closable doors and a large 32-inch 4K monitor. This offers maximum privacy and an enhanced premium experience.

Premium Economy and Economy Upgrades

The new Premium Economy Class features a modern fixed-shell seat. This design prevents disturbing neighboring passengers when reclining. It includes discreet privacy panels and noticeably more personal space. The seat also features an integrated leg rest and a 15.6-inch 4K monitor.

In Economy Class, a new seat generation is being introduced. It offers improved ergonomics and increased legroom. Passengers will benefit from larger 13.3-inch 4K screens and Bluetooth connectivity. USB-A and USB-C ports are available for modern device charging.

Technology and Market Impact

The total investment is reported to be in the hundreds of millions of euros. This underscores the parent company's confidence in the leisure subsidiary.

• New Configuration: After the A330 fleet retrofit, each aircraft will have 288 seats. This includes 30 Business Class, 31 Premium Economy, and 227 Economy Class seats.
• Passenger Well-being: The cabin will be equipped with Human Centric Lighting. This intelligent system adjusts light color and intensity. It is designed to support passengers' natural biorhythms. This helps reduce the effects of jet lag on long-haul flights.
• Connectivity: The refurbished aircraft will also be equipped with Starlink Wi-Fi. This provides high-speed internet access across the fleet.

This modernization program positions Discover Airlines to compete directly in the high-end tourism segment. It is a direct challenge to competitors like German leisure carrier Condor. The upgrade harmonizes the aircraft hardware with the quality standards of the Lufthansa Group while maintaining its distinct leisure focus.

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