Why is Lufthansa replacing its four-engine jets with Boeing 787 and Airbus A350 aircraft?

The Lufthansa Group is driving a major transformation of its long-haul fleet. This ambitious long-haul fleet modernization program involves significant orders from both Boeing and Airbus. The strategy focuses on replacing aging, four-engine aircraft with modern, fuel-efficient widebodies. This shift aims to boost efficiency and reduce the airline’s environmental footprint.

The Dual-Aisle Order Book

Lufthansa Group has placed multiple orders since 2019 for new long-haul aircraft. The initial major order was for 40 state-of-the-art jets. This included 20 Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft and 20 additional Airbus A350 aircraft. The list price for this 2019 order was approximately $12 billion.

Further orders in 2021 and 2023 have substantially increased the total commitment. The group’s firm order book now includes the Boeing 787-9, the Airbus A350-900, and the larger A350-1000 variant. The total number of new long-haul jets on order, including the Boeing 777X, is over 100. Deliveries are planned to continue through the middle of the decade.

Key Details of the Fleet Transition

• The new twin-engine jets are replacing older, less efficient models.
• Primary targets for four-engine aircraft replacement are the Airbus A340-family aircraft.
• The group is also implementing an A340 A380 retirement plan, selling six Airbus A380s back to the manufacturer.
• The goal is to reduce the four-engine aircraft share to under 15% by the mid-2020s.

Economic and Environmental Impact

The move to the Boeing 787 Dreamliner and Airbus A350 aircraft offers significant benefits. Both aircraft types are known for their advanced technology and efficiency.

• Fuel Efficiency: The new aircraft consume about 25% less kerosene than the models they replace. They use approximately 2.9 liters of kerosene per passenger per 100 kilometers flown.
• Cost Reduction: The improved fuel burn is projected to reduce operating costs by around 15%.
• Sustainability: This transition supports the industry's push for reduced CO2 emissions. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) stresses the importance of fleet renewal for sustainability goals.

Lufthansa Group CEO Carsten Spohr highlighted the environmental factor. He noted that lower CO2 emissions were a decisive factor in the investment. The new fleet also features lower noise emissions, benefiting airports and surrounding communities. The airline is also investing in its cabin product, known as 'Allegris,' for enhanced passenger comfort.

Commercial Aviation Outlook

This aggressive Lufthansa Group fleet renewal is a major market signal. It confirms the industry trend toward modern twin-engine jets for long-haul routes. The program provides stability for both Airbus and Boeing widebody production lines. The use of “white tail” 787s, originally built for other airlines, also accelerated delivery during the pandemic recovery. This move allowed Lufthansa to capitalize on anti-cyclical opportunities. The strategy aims to ensure the airline remains competitive. It also positions the group for future growth in the global market. For more commercial aviation news and analysis, visit flying.flights.