If Emirates is the last stronghold for the Airbus A380, then Lufthansa is the steadfast guardian of the Boeing 747 in scheduled passenger services. Only four airlines still operate these iconic jets for regular passenger flights: Air China, Rossiya Airlines, Korean Air, and, of course, Lufthansa. Interestingly, Rossiya had initially retired its 747-400s but had to bring a few back into service due to sanctions. Lufthansa, however, boasts the largest fleet of passenger 747s and seems committed to flying its 747-8s longer than any other airline. But what’s driving this decision? Is Lufthansa stuck with an outdated model, or have they discovered a way to make the Jumbo Jet a viable option well into the 2020s? Let’s dive into why Lufthansa remains loyal to the 747-8.
A significant factor in the economic viability of an aircraft is an airline’s ability to efficiently maintain it. Lufthansa has a secret weapon in this regard: Lufthansa Technik. This subsidiary of the Lufthansa Group specializes in maintenance, repair, and overhaul services for aircraft, engines, and components. Not only does it keep Lufthansa’s fleet in top shape, but it also serves over 800 other customers worldwide, including some that operate Boeing 747s, like Air China and Asiana Airlines. While the full list of its Jumbo customers isn’t public, it likely includes VIP 747-8 clients and possibly airlines like Atlas Air, Cargolux, and UPS. With Lufthansa Technik’s expertise, the logistical challenges and costs of operating a fleet of 27 Boeing 747s are significantly reduced, making it a more feasible option for Lufthansa.
The Boeing 747-8, much like the Airbus A380, was designed for long-haul, hub-to-hub routes, particularly those with a high demand for premium seating. Lufthansa, headquartered in Frankfurt, a major global financial hub, is perfectly positioned to capitalize on this. While short-haul routes like Frankfurt to London aren’t ideal for these massive aircraft, Lufthansa operates several lucrative long-haul routes that are. These routes attract a large number of business and first-class passengers, making the 747-8 a profitable choice. By leveraging its maintenance capabilities and strategic route planning, Lufthansa has found a way to keep the iconic Jumbo Jet flying high. #Lufthansa #Boeing747 #AviationInnovation
Originally reported by Simple Flying Read More
