Lufthansa’s Farewell to the Queens 747-400 and A340 Fleet Retirement Set for 2028

Lufthansa's Farewell to the Queens 747-400 and A340 Fleet Retirement Set for 2028 - A Look Back at Three Decades of Lufthansa 747-400 Operations Since 1989

Lufthansa's decision to retire its remaining Boeing 747-400s by 2028 signifies the end of a significant era. These iconic planes, introduced in 1989, have been synonymous with Lufthansa's long-haul network, their four-engine roar a familiar sound to countless travelers. For three decades, the 747-400 played a pivotal role, connecting continents and solidifying Lufthansa's position as a global leader. However, with just eight of these older models still in service, the average age now well over two decades, it's clear that the time has come for an update.

This retirement, aligning with industry-wide trends toward operational efficiency and cost reductions, highlights the airline's commitment to a more streamlined fleet. The move also suggests a shift away from older technologies in favor of newer, more fuel-efficient aircraft. While the newer Boeing 747-8 models will remain, the departure of the 747-400s signals a change for Lufthansa. It's a moment that will be felt by seasoned travelers who remember the grandeur and unique experience these aircraft offered. Even though a new generation of aircraft will take their place, the 747-400's legacy is likely to endure, serving as a potent reminder of aviation's past golden age.

Looking back at the past three and a half decades, Lufthansa's Boeing 747-400 has been a cornerstone of their long-haul fleet. Introduced in 1989, this aircraft represented a huge step up in passenger capacity, accommodating up to 500 individuals. This surge in carrying power proved instrumental in meeting growing passenger demand.

The 747-400’s substantial wingspan, stretching nearly the length of a football field, is a remarkable engineering feat. It has allowed the aircraft to achieve commendable aerodynamic efficiency, especially considering its considerable size. And speaking of size, this massive airframe has allowed Lufthansa to implement innovative cabin layouts like a premium economy class, providing a midpoint between standard economy and business class at a competitive price.

These aircraft connected travellers to a large network, with over 200 destinations across the globe. It demonstrated the 747-400's value as a versatile workhorse for long-haul flights. The two-deck structure, a defining characteristic of the 747, was a creative space-maximization technique. This design provided Lufthansa with space to implement different seating configurations while maintaining a high level of comfort.

Interestingly, several 747-400s went through cabin and flight deck modernization in the mid-2010s, keeping them in the competition on both passenger experience and maintenance cost fronts. That signature hump of the 747, it's more than a distinctive aesthetic. It houses the raised flight deck and provides the pilots with superior visibility, a key factor in aircraft safety, especially during take-offs and landings.

Lufthansa's data reveals that between 1989 and 2023 their 747-400s carried around 80 million passengers, highlighting how important the model was to the airline's growth and profitability during that period. The engines used in the 747-400, made by Pratt & Whitney, were cutting edge back in the late 1980s, pushing the performance envelope in commercial aviation. They delivered the immense power needed to operate from higher-elevation airports, a necessity given many European locations.

While a large number of airlines have phased out the 747-400, Lufthansa’s choice to retire theirs by 2028 is a sign of the broader industry movement toward more fuel-efficient aircraft. It raises questions about the position of an aircraft like the 747-400, so important in aviation history, in the future of the industry.

What else is in this post?

1. Lufthansa's Farewell to the Queens 747-400 and A340 Fleet Retirement Set for 2028 - A Look Back at Three Decades of Lufthansa 747-400 Operations Since 1989
2. Lufthansa's Farewell to the Queens 747-400 and A340 Fleet Retirement Set for 2028 - What Routes Will the Boeing 747-8 Take Over From the Retired Aircraft
3. Lufthansa's Farewell to the Queens 747-400 and A340 Fleet Retirement Set for 2028 - Frankfurt Hub Sees Major Changes With Wide Body Fleet Reshuffle
4. Lufthansa's Farewell to the Queens 747-400 and A340 Fleet Retirement Set for 2028 - Why the A340s Early Retirement Makes Financial Sense
5. Lufthansa's Farewell to the Queens 747-400 and A340 Fleet Retirement Set for 2028 - Which Airlines Still Operate the Boeing 747-400 in 2024
6. Lufthansa's Farewell to the Queens 747-400 and A340 Fleet Retirement Set for 2028 - How Lufthansa Plans to Replace 25 Long Haul Aircraft by 2028

Lufthansa's Farewell to the Queens 747-400 and A340 Fleet Retirement Set for 2028 - What Routes Will the Boeing 747-8 Take Over From the Retired Aircraft

With Lufthansa's decision to retire its Boeing 747-400s by 2028, the spotlight falls on the Boeing 747-8, which will step into the role of long-haul workhorse. Lufthansa is the world's biggest operator of the 747-8, and they plan to use the newer aircraft on thirteen routes from Frankfurt this winter. The 747-8 boasts 364 seats, a slightly reduced capacity compared to its predecessor, and offers updated cabin amenities, like the Allegris program. Lufthansa's shift is part of a larger trend across airlines – a push for better operational efficiency and lower costs. However, this transition also signifies a goodbye to an aviation icon, an aircraft that played a significant role for Lufthansa over the past few decades. While the 747-400 is being sent to retirement, the 747-8 will continue the legacy, albeit with a more modern approach to long-haul travel. Expect to see a slightly refined and upgraded travel experience on those routes, as the airline strives for greater efficiency in its operations. It's an evolving landscape for the airline and its passengers, with a change in emphasis, but still featuring the recognizable four-engine design the 747 is known for.

With Lufthansa's plan to phase out the 747-400 by 2028, the question arises: what routes will the Boeing 747-8 take over?

The 747-8, a newer iteration of the iconic jumbo jet, offers several advantages over its predecessor. Its passenger capacity, exceeding 600 in a single-class layout, is significantly larger than the older 747-400, suggesting a potentially increased revenue stream on busy routes. The use of GEnx-2B67 engines on the 747-8, compared to the older Pratt & Whitney engines found in the 747-400, also contributes to better fuel efficiency and potentially lower operational costs. This improvement is especially relevant as fuel prices continue to fluctuate and airlines grapple with maintaining profitability.

The 747-8’s strategic importance in Lufthansa's operations can be seen in its early deployment, first used in 2012 on the Frankfurt-Washington D.C. route. Its advanced wing design, which includes winglets, further contributes to better fuel efficiency, with an estimated 15% reduction in fuel burn compared to older 747 variants. This allows the 747-8 to operate longer flights, with a maximum range of about 7,730 nautical miles. This expanded range potentially enables the airline to operate direct flights on ultra-long-haul routes, which can reduce the need for connecting flights and increase passenger convenience.

It's anticipated that the 747-8 will maintain service on crucial routes previously covered by the 747-400, such as flights to key business and leisure destinations like New York, Tokyo, and Hong Kong. This ensures consistent service to these important markets. Additionally, the 747-8’s dual-deck configuration allows for a variety of cabin classes, from first class to a larger business class, potentially enhancing revenue.

The aircraft's advanced cockpit, featuring more modern avionics and automated systems, should improve pilot awareness and situational control, particularly important when flying over complex airspace on extended flights. There is also a freight variant, the 747-8F, which provides flexibility for airlines to carry both passengers and cargo on the same route. This added feature could contribute to lower shipping costs for certain routes and enhance overall aircraft utilization.

Lufthansa's continued investment in the 747-8 showcases a wider industry perspective, highlighting its potential as not simply a large passenger-carrying airplane but a valuable strategic asset in the global aviation landscape, particularly on routes demanding high capacity and superior performance. It's this factor, and others, that may lead to a continuation of the Boeing 747 legacy for many years to come.

Lufthansa's Farewell to the Queens 747-400 and A340 Fleet Retirement Set for 2028 - Frankfurt Hub Sees Major Changes With Wide Body Fleet Reshuffle

Lufthansa's Frankfurt hub is in the midst of a substantial makeover, with a major fleet reshuffle impacting its wide-body operations. The airline is setting the stage for the retirement of its remaining Boeing 747-400s and A340s by 2028, marking the end of an era for these established aircraft. This shift underscores the airline's push for a more modern and efficient fleet, a move driven by evolving market conditions and the need for improved fuel economy.

As part of this transition, Lufthansa is focusing on incorporating newer, more fuel-efficient aircraft into its long-haul network. While this modernization process might offer some improvements for travellers, it does represent a shift away from these recognizable workhorses that had served the airline for years.

But it's not just about planes. The Frankfurt hub itself is being revamped with a major cargo handling facility upgrade. Lufthansa Cargo is plowing nearly 500 million euros into a project called LCCevolution, aiming to enhance cargo operations. A new, massive highbay warehouse is part of the plans. Frankfurt is a crucial component of Lufthansa Cargo's global operations, handling roughly 80% of their freight volume.

The Frankfurt upgrade and the fleet refresh represent a significant investment by Lufthansa. The airline is attempting to future-proof its operations through modernizing its aircraft and enhancing its cargo infrastructure. This transition, while potentially beneficial in terms of efficiency and possibly a better experience for travelers, does signify a departure from a time when the Boeing 747-400s and Airbus A340s were essential players in the Lufthansa fleet.

Lufthansa's Frankfurt hub is undergoing a significant transformation, reflecting a wider trend in the airline industry towards optimized operations. The shift involves retiring older, four-engine wide-body aircraft like the 747-400 and A340 in favor of more fuel-efficient twin-engine models, such as the Boeing 787 and Airbus A350. This change is largely driven by advancements in engine technology, leading to substantial fuel savings and reduced operating costs.

The Boeing 747-8, slated to take over many of the routes previously served by the 747-400, incorporates noise-reduction technologies, making it among the quietest large commercial aircraft available. This aspect becomes increasingly crucial as airports around the globe implement stringent noise regulations. The 747-400, however, has had a tremendous impact on Lufthansa's network over the years, having flown over 5.8 billion passenger kilometers in its operational life. This vast number illustrates its critical role in connecting major global cities and supporting passenger demand growth.

The 747-8, in its role as a replacement, employs advanced wing designs incorporating winglets, resulting in an estimated 15% fuel efficiency improvement compared to the 747-400. This enhanced fuel efficiency directly affects ticket pricing, enabling Lufthansa and other airlines to potentially offer more competitive fares on long-haul routes. A further advantage for passengers is the 747-8's high cruising altitude of 35,000 feet, allowing it to operate above many weather disturbances, resulting in smoother and more stable flights. Reduced turbulence and jet lag are valuable benefits for travelers.

Lufthansa has begun to integrate its new Allegris cabin product on the 747-8, offering a modernized passenger experience with refined seating and improved entertainment systems. This upgrade will likely resonate with frequent fliers seeking a more comfortable experience on long-haul journeys. It is notable that Lufthansa aims to decrease its average carbon emissions per passenger kilometer by at least 20% through the introduction of newer aircraft. This objective demonstrates the airline's commitment to sustainability and its ability to remain competitive in a travel market where passengers are increasingly eco-conscious.

The retirement of older aircraft like the A340 creates new opportunities for Lufthansa to establish direct flight routes to destinations that were previously unfeasible due to capacity constraints. This expansion of connectivity could pave the way for service to emerging travel hubs. The 747-8's unique dual-deck configuration allows for flexibility in cabin arrangements, enabling Lufthansa to tailor seat layouts to passenger demand. This versatility can lead to more efficient aircraft utilization and profitability. Moreover, Lufthansa's focus on utilizing advanced maintenance technologies for the 747-8 fleet could minimize airplane downtime, optimizing flight reliability and potentially enhancing passenger satisfaction and loyalty. In a fiercely competitive landscape, these elements become vital to maintaining a strong presence in the airline industry.

Lufthansa's Farewell to the Queens 747-400 and A340 Fleet Retirement Set for 2028 - Why the A340s Early Retirement Makes Financial Sense

Lufthansa's decision to retire its Airbus A340s ahead of schedule demonstrates a calculated move toward improved financial health and simplified operations. By removing these older planes from service, the airline aims to reduce the financial burden of maintenance and create a more streamlined widebody fleet. This focus on efficiency is increasingly crucial in today's competitive environment. The airline's strategy pivots toward newer, more fuel-efficient aircraft like the 747-8 and A350, which will absorb the A340's former routes. This shift acknowledges the growing importance of both sustainable practices and operating costs in air travel. Ultimately, Lufthansa's decision not only makes the fleet more manageable, but it also reflects a larger industry pattern towards technologically advanced and economically sound long-haul operations.

The Airbus A340, a pioneer in long-haul flying when it debuted in the early 90s, faced a challenge with the advent of newer twin-engine aircraft. The A350 and Boeing 787 proved to be significantly more fuel-efficient, making the A340's fuel consumption a major operational cost hurdle. This has created a noticeable difference compared to its more contemporary rivals.

Lufthansa historically deployed the A340, along with the 747-400, for routes to Asia and North America. The airline's move towards modernization allows it to optimize profit by favoring the more efficient Boeing 787 Dreamliner. With up to 20% better fuel efficiency and a longer range, the 787 presents a clear advantage.

The A340-600, the longest of the A340 family, stands out as a notable example. Its operating costs can be a staggering 30% higher than competing twin-engine aircraft like the A350. This stems mainly from the four-engine design, demanding more maintenance and fuel compared to its two-engine competitors.

While the A340 is recognized for its comfortable cabin and quieter flight, the market has shifted towards cost-efficiency over luxury. The added comfort comes with a price tag, and that price is becoming increasingly difficult to justify.

The move to retire the A340 fleet also reflects changing passenger expectations. Modern travelers prioritize newer amenities like better inflight entertainment and onboard Wi-Fi, which older aircraft simply cannot offer at the same level.

This shift might also result in decreased flight frequencies on routes previously served by the A340. Twin-engine aircraft have the potential to generate higher profits, even at reduced capacity on less-traveled routes. This approach improves overall aircraft utilization.

The A340's generous interior space allowed airlines the flexibility to design a wider variety of seating configurations, including premium economy. This seating class has become very popular. Still, in the current, intensely competitive environment, airlines simply cannot ignore the pressure to reduce costs.

The transition to electronic flight instrumentation and automated systems in newer aircraft has increased the operational complexity and maintenance costs of older planes like the A340. Pilots trained on more modern systems might need further training to competently handle the older aircraft, adding another cost factor.

While Lufthansa might have a degree of sentimental attachment to the A340, the financial reality dictates a focus on revenue generation. The airline's desire to return to pre-pandemic profitability levels makes retiring older models a logical decision, despite any nostalgic connections.

The impending fleet modernization at Lufthansa might benefit travellers. Lower operating costs with the newer models might lead to more competitive ticket prices, especially on transatlantic routes previously handled by the A340. It remains to be seen if this is realized.

Lufthansa's Farewell to the Queens 747-400 and A340 Fleet Retirement Set for 2028 - Which Airlines Still Operate the Boeing 747-400 in 2024

The Boeing 747-400, a symbol of a bygone era in air travel, continues to operate in a limited capacity in 2024. A few airlines, notably Lufthansa, Korean Air, and Asiana Airlines, still keep a small number of these wide-body aircraft in service. Lufthansa, with its eight remaining 747-400s, stands as the largest operator, often deploying them on longer routes where passenger capacity is a crucial consideration. Korean Air, meanwhile, continues to operate the newer Boeing 747-8 variant, highlighting its continued belief in the 747 family. Asiana Airlines, on the other hand, is approaching the end of the line for its last 747-400, with retirement planned for March 2024. Interestingly, they are marking this occasion with discounted tickets for the final flight, a gesture that could attract both enthusiasts and travelers seeking a unique travel experience.

This limited continued operation of the 747-400, especially amongst larger airlines, signifies a broader trend across the industry. The need for better fuel efficiency and more modern technologies is driving airlines to move away from older aircraft designs. While the 747's iconic shape remains, its ability to adapt to the current cost-conscious travel environment has become increasingly difficult. For Lufthansa, the 2028 retirement plans for the remainder of their 747-400s and the A340s signal a broader change in their strategy. It will be interesting to see how these older models are eventually phased out and which planes and routes will take their place. Whether they are utilized for specific niche market sectors or retired to become museum exhibits, they will undoubtedly be remembered as symbols of a golden age of air travel.

While many airlines have retired the Boeing 747-400, a few still keep these iconic aircraft in their fleets, providing a glimpse into aviation history. The 747-400's last passenger deliveries were in 2006, meaning the ones still flying are now well over a decade old, showing their remarkable durability.

Korean Air stands out with their 747-8 variants, although they are also planning on phasing out their last 747 by 2031. Their continued use of this type hints at a strategy that balances newer and older technologies. Interestingly, Asiana Airlines has chosen to continue operating a single 747-400, registered as HL7428, which is a testament to the resilience of the design. It appears they are capitalizing on the aircraft's capacity, but it will be retired in 2024. It is offering discounts for the last flight.

Lufthansa, the 747's biggest operator as of 2024, maintains a fleet of eight Boeing 747-400s on its routes. With their fleet average age of over 24 years, it underlines the continued relevance of these jets for the time being. Lufthansa's final retirement of the 747-400 is planned for 2028.

It's intriguing that some airlines persist in operating these older 747-400s in 2024. For instance, Qantas is utilizing it for routes connecting Australia with other parts of the world, highlighting the continued need for aircraft with their range capabilities. The fact that some airlines are still using the 747-400 indicates that certain aspects, like its capacity and range, still offer a competitive edge in some cases, as fuel efficiency is less important for some. Airlines like El Al continue to serve certain routes with the 747-400 as well, demonstrating its endurance. This choice is potentially driven by both passenger demand and the specific operating conditions on these routes.

The 747-400's legacy is also being sustained by its role in cargo operations. Carriers like Atlas Air and Air Transport Services Group have embraced the 747-400's load-carrying ability, making it suitable for various freight tasks. The design of the 747-400, with its large cargo bays and adaptability to configurations, has allowed these operations to continue.

Interestingly, the ticket prices on 747-400 routes are often noticeably higher compared to more modern aircraft. This could be a sign that there's a significant niche demand for the unique experience these planes offer, especially among aviation enthusiasts. Loyalty programs are also still reflecting the popularity of the aircraft, offering a greater number of points to the passengers who choose the 747-400 on their travels.

It's fascinating to observe the gradual phase-out of this aircraft while recognizing that a certain segment of the travel market still values its features. With enthusiasts tracking and recording the remaining 747-400 flights, this type of interest may contribute to extending the life of these aircraft for a few more years yet. The Boeing 747-400’s story is one of adaptability, having been in service for so long and continuing to offer benefits to different sectors of the aviation industry, and that's a testament to the clever design of these aircraft.

Lufthansa's Farewell to the Queens 747-400 and A340 Fleet Retirement Set for 2028 - How Lufthansa Plans to Replace 25 Long Haul Aircraft by 2028

Lufthansa is in the midst of a major fleet overhaul, with plans to replace 25 long-haul aircraft by 2028. This involves the retirement of a significant portion of its older, four-engine fleet, including the beloved Boeing 747-400 and Airbus A340. The airline's goal is to reduce the number of four-engine planes in its long-haul fleet to less than 15% by the middle of the decade, indicating a clear shift towards more modern, fuel-efficient aircraft.

This change is being driven by several factors, including a need for greater operational efficiency and lower costs, both of which are becoming increasingly critical in today's airline market. It's also a response to evolving customer expectations. Travelers are increasingly looking for newer aircraft with more modern amenities. To that end, Lufthansa is investing in a newer generation of twin-engine aircraft like the Boeing 787-9 and Airbus A350-900 to take over the roles previously filled by the retiring fleet.

This significant investment in new aircraft is likely to impact Lufthansa's overall operating costs and, in turn, potentially lead to more competitive ticket pricing for passengers. However, it's important to acknowledge that this transition raises questions about the potential impact on service quality and frequency on routes that heavily relied on the older, higher-capacity aircraft. It's a bold move, but the long-term ramifications for both the airline and travelers remain to be seen.

Lufthansa's plan to replace 25 long-haul aircraft by 2028, primarily with the Boeing 787 and Airbus A350, is driven by a desire to enhance operational efficiency and improve their bottom line. The airline's strategy revolves around lowering operating costs, which are notoriously tight in the aviation industry. Newer aircraft typically boast maintenance costs that are 20-30% lower than older models, translating into a more stable financial picture for Lufthansa.

This fleet modernization project isn't just about the bottom line. It also involves creating a better passenger experience. The new planes will have noise reduction features leading to quieter cabins, improving passenger comfort. There's also the fuel efficiency gains to consider. Twin-engine aircraft like the 787 and A350 can see fuel savings up to 25% when compared to the older four-engine aircraft. This translates to considerable savings on operating costs and may even trickle down to lower ticket prices for travelers.

The newer aircraft, especially the Boeing 747-8, will allow Lufthansa to increase passenger capacity and revenue on busy routes. With a maximum seating capacity exceeding 600 in a single-class configuration, the 747-8 is well-suited to maximize profitability. Furthermore, the modernization could lead to more direct flights to previously less accessible destinations, expanding Lufthansa's route network.

Newer aircraft are built to stricter noise regulations, which is becoming increasingly vital as many airports face pressure to reduce noise pollution. This is important for Lufthansa as it can continue to operate out of airports with stringent regulations.

The ambitious fleet modernization also involves considerable infrastructure upgrades. For example, the massive €500 million cargo upgrade at Frankfurt hub is expected to improve cargo handling and enhance the efficiency of managing increased passenger traffic.

It's important to note that these changes come with their own challenges. Training pilots on the advanced avionics systems found in the new planes will likely require a larger investment in training. This is an ongoing trend in aviation toward higher degrees of automation in cockpits. The airline will likely also review their loyalty programs, potentially offering more rewards for those who choose to travel on newer, more fuel-efficient aircraft.

Another interesting impact is the possibility of flying ultra-long-haul flights that were not possible before. The Boeing 787, for instance, has a range of around 7,530 nautical miles, enabling Lufthansa to connect continents that were previously less convenient to travel to without needing connecting flights. These changes could lead to new opportunities for Lufthansa in lucrative markets that previously weren't feasible to serve.


This modernization strategy will likely have a wide range of consequences for passengers and Lufthansa's operations. The interplay between fuel efficiency, cabin noise, enhanced comfort, and longer route options will certainly shape the airline's future and offer the flying public a subtly different experience in the coming years. It will be interesting to see how this strategy unfolds and impacts travel between continents.