HereWeGo
April 16, 2026 • 3 min read
Lufthansa has announced significant changes to its fleet, including the retirement of the A340-600 and the addition of A350 aircraft for Discover Airlines. Read on for more details about these developments.
Current Situation at Lufthansa
Lufthansa is facing several major challenges due to soaring oil prices and serious labor issues. Recently, the airline announced a series of measures to adjust its capacity and fleet. Notably, Lufthansa has decided to discontinue its Lufthansa CityLine branch without prior notice, indicating a strong strategic shift.
Long-Haul Fleet Changes
One of the key highlights of the latest announcement is Lufthansa's plan to reduce its long-haul capacity by retiring six aircraft by the end of the summer 2026 schedule. Specifically, the last four Airbus A340-600 jets will be retired in October 2026. This decision isn't entirely surprising, as the A340-600 was already expected to be phased out by 2027.
Similarly, two Boeing 747-400 aircraft will also be grounded in October 2026, with an official retirement planned for 2027. Currently, Lufthansa operates eight 747-400 jets, while the 747-8 models will continue to operate for several more years.
Unexpected Timing
It's noteworthy that this decision comes after the summer season, a time when travel demand remains high. Many are surprised that the airline did not retire these aircraft sooner, possibly due to the attractive profits generated during the summer. However, it is likely that the 747-400s will not have the opportunity to fly again after being grounded and will simply be stored until their official retirement.
Discover Airlines Update
In addition, there's interesting news regarding Discover Airlines, Lufthansa's low-cost subsidiary. The airline has announced that it will receive an additional nine Airbus A350-900 aircraft, along with four A350-900s from Philippine Airlines in 2027. Lufthansa's goal is to maximize the number of flights operated under its non-Lufthansa brand to achieve higher profits amid increased competition.
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Useful Information for Vietnamese Travelers
For Vietnamese travelers planning to fly with Lufthansa, it's important to note that the airline currently operates several routes from Vietnam to Europe. The flight time from Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) to Frankfurt (FRA) is approximately 11-12 hours. Ticket prices typically range from 15 million to 25 million VND, depending on when you book and the class of service. Notably, Lufthansa flights from Vietnam can connect to many other destinations around the world.
Travelers should also consider booking in advance and keep an eye on updates from the airline, as fleet changes may impact flight schedules. This is particularly important given the ongoing effects of Covid-19 on global flight operations.
Conclusion
Overall, Lufthansa is making significant changes to its fleet to adapt to the current financial situation. These decisions will not only impact the airline's operations but also affect travelers, especially as the low-cost subsidiary Discover Airlines is poised for expansion in developing markets.
For those who enjoy a luxurious and comfortable travel experience, Lufthansa will undoubtedly remain an attractive option in the future, despite the changes to its fleet. Stay tuned for the latest updates so you don't miss the chance to fly with Lufthansa on your upcoming travels!
Article referenced and edited from: One Mile at a Time
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