Lufthansa Airlines is a study in brilliant highs and frustrating inconsistencies. The German flag carrier delivers operational excellence and superb ground services.
Its in-flight experience swings wildly between cutting-edge and outdated. This depends entirely on which aircraft type operates your specific route.
This honest review dissects every Lufthansa cabin, from Economy to First Class. You will learn which specific aircraft to target and which to avoid.
lufthansa airlines overview
Lufthansa Airlines is the flagship carrier of Germany and the largest airline group in Europe. Its primary hubs are Frankfurt Airport (FRA) and Munich Airport (MUC).
It is a founding member of the Star Alliance, the world’s largest global airline network. This provides access to over 1,200 destinations through partners like United Airlines.
The Lufthansa Group includes Austrian Airlines, SWISS, Brussels Airlines, and Eurowings. Its massive network centers on connecting Europe to North America and Asia.
The airline consistently earns a Skytrax 5-Star Airline rating, a mark of quality achievement. This rating reflects its operational reliability and comprehensive premium ground services.
For a business traveler, Lufthansa’s schedule density from major U.S. cities is outstanding. An executive can book a Frankfurt meeting knowing there are four later flights if theirs is missed.
A family will find the group’s coordinated transfer process at Munich Airport exceptionally smooth. The airport layout is less chaotic than Frankfurt’s sprawling, maze-like terminal complex.
is lufthansa a good airline
Lufthansa is a fundamentally good, safe, and reliable airline with a premium pedigree. Its greatest sin is an inconsistent product across its long-haul fleet.
For the vast majority of economy travelers, it offers a solid, predictable experience. The seats, food, and service meet the high standard expected of a premium European flag carrier.
The real question arises when you pay a significant price premium for a business or first class seat. On the right aircraft, it is one of the best products in the sky.
On the wrong aircraft, you will pay a five-star price for a mediocre, cramped, three-star seat. This is a risk most competing carriers have largely eliminated.
A first-time international traveler can book Lufthansa in economy with full confidence. The English-speaking crew and orderly German processes are reassuring for navigating a first long-haul flight.
The premium leisure traveler must be vigilant. An A350 flight to Munich is a world-class experience, while an A340 to Chicago is a relic that should be avoided at all costs.
Lufthansa Quality Verdict by Traveler Profile
| Traveler Profile | Is Lufthansa Good? | Critical Condition |
|---|---|---|
| Business Traveler | Yes, excellent for schedule/connectivity | Always confirm seat map; avoid 2-2-2 business class. |
| First-Time International | Yes, reliable and reassuring | The process is easy to navigate. |
| Family in Economy | Yes, standard and predictable | Book seats together well in advance. |
| Premium Leisure Traveler | Conditional | Only book the Airbus A350, Boeing 787, or new Allegris A350. |
| Luxury First Class Seeker | Yes, one of the best on Earth | Only if accessing the First Class Terminal in Frankfurt. |
Key Takeaway: Lufthansa is a top-tier airline whose quality is entirely conditional on your specific aircraft type and the fare class you booked.
lufthansa fleet aircraft types
The lufthansa fleet is a complex mix of modern marvels and aging workhorses. Knowing the difference between these aircraft is the key to a good trip.
The crown jewel for long-haul passengers is the Airbus A350-900. A portion of this fleet is now being fitted with the revolutionary “Allegris” interior.
The iconic Boeing 747-8 remains the queen of the skies for Lufthansa. It operates many high-density routes and features a very specific First Class experience in the nose cone.
The Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner is joining the fleet rapidly, replacing older aircraft. It brings modern cabin pressure and larger windows but a standard business class seat.
The aircraft to be cautious of is the Airbus A340-600. It features an outdated 2-2-2 business class configuration and an economy cabin that shows its age.
For a business traveler, the A350 with Allegris is the priority booking. It promises a fully private suite. For a solo traveler in business class, the A340’s 2-2-2 layout is a nightmare if you are stuck in a middle or window seat without direct aisle access.
Lufthansa Long-Haul Fleet Guide
| Aircraft Type | Business Class Config | First Class | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airbus A350-900 (Allegris) | 1-2-1 suite (various types) | No | The future of Lufthansa; lock this in. |
| Boeing 747-8 | 2-2-2 (main deck) / 2-2 (upper) | Yes (nose) | Book the upper deck for the best experience. |
| Boeing 787-9 | 1-2-1 (standard lie-flat) | No | Modern and reliable. A solid hard product. |
| Airbus A350-900 (Classic) | 2-2-2 lie-flat | No | Comfortable but lacks direct aisle access. |
| Airbus A340-600 | 2-2-2 lie-flat | No | Avoid if possible. The outdated cabin is a poor value. |
Key Takeaway: The A350 and 787 represent the modern Lufthansa experience, while the 747-8 is a classic treat, and the A340 is the fleet’s rusty link that must be dodged.
lufthansa economy class review
Lufthansa economy class on long-haul flights is a solid, middle-of-the-pack product. It delivers a competent but not class-leading passenger experience.
Seat pitch in standard economy is typically around 31 inches on the A350 and 747-8. This is industry average and provides adequate legroom for most passengers.
The seat itself is an Ergo-style design with a winged headrest and a personal IFE screen. The seat bottom cushion slides forward when you recline, which helps personal space.
A major bright spot is the complimentary meal and beverage service. You will receive a hot meal, a second snack service, and free beer, wine, and spirits.
For a budget traveler, the new “Economy Light” fare is a double-edged sword. The base price is cheap, but it does not include any checked baggage, making long-haul packing nearly impossible without a high add-on fee.
A family will appreciate the baby bassinet positions and the reliable IFE content. The consistent product and professional crew service make it a safe choice for long-haul travel with children.
- Legroom: Standard 31-inch pitch; adequate but not generous.
- IFE Screen: 11 to 12-inch touchscreen with a vast library of movies and TV.
- Meals: Complimentary hot meal, snack, and full bar service.
- Amenity Kit: Not provided in economy on most routes.
- Honest Limitation: The 3-4-3 layout on the 747-8 is dense, and the seat padding feels thin after six hours.
Key Takeaway: Lufthansa economy is a safe, professional product that delivers exactly what it promises, but it will not surprise or delight the way some Asian carriers do.
lufthansa premium economy class
Lufthansa premium economy class is a meaningful and worthwhile step up from economy. It occupies a middle ground that actually feels distinct.
The premium economy seat offers about 38 inches of pitch, which is a 7-inch bonus. This transforms the knee space from tolerable to genuinely comfortable.
The seat is wider than economy, with a more substantial leg rest and a larger 13-inch IFE monitor. The dedicated cabin, separated by a bulkhead and curtains, feels exclusive and quiet.
The meal service is an upgrade to a better menu served on real china with metal cutlery. You also receive a small amenity kit with socks, eye mask, and dental supplies.
For a business traveler on a budget-conscious policy, this is the sweet spot. It is significantly less expensive than business class but delivers a level of comfort where you can actually arrive rested.
A solo traveler flying a daytime route eastbound from the U.S. to Europe should consider this carefully. The lie-flat bed is less critical on a 7-hour day flight, and the cost savings are huge.
- Seat Pitch: Approximately 38 inches.
- Check-in & Boarding: Priority check-in desks and earlier boarding group.
- Baggage: Two checked bags included, at 23kg each typically.
- Honest Limitation: The seat is a recliner, not a lie-flat, so sleep is still limited on overnight legs.
lufthansa business class seats
Lufthansa business class seats vary so much they could belong to different airlines. Your experience is a lottery won or lost at the point of booking.
The best business class product is the new Allegris cabin on select A350 aircraft. This features a true suite with a door, a personal wardrobe, and a large lie-flat bed.
The most common modern seat is the standard 1-2-1 lie-flat on the Boeing 787-9. This guarantees every passenger direct aisle access in a comfortable, private pod.
The legacy seat, found on the A340-600 and older A350s, is a dense 2-2-2 configuration. In this layout, the window passenger must awkwardly step over a sleeping neighbor to access the aisle.
This is the single most important and harsh reality of flying Lufthansa up front. A business traveler paying full fare must check the seat map and avoid a 2-2-2 aircraft at all costs.
For a solo traveler, the Allegris suite is the ultimate private sanctuary. For a family or couple flying together, the older 2-2-2 middle pair can be a cozy, companionable option that is far less isolating.
Lufthansa Business Class Seat Comparison
| Seat Type | Aircraft | Layout | Direct Aisle Access | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Allegris Suite | A350-900 (new) | 1-2-1 | Yes, with a privacy door | Solo luxury travelers |
| Standard Lie-Flat | 787-9, A350 (some) | 1-2-1 | Yes, all seats | Business travelers needing rest |
| Upper Deck Lie-Flat | 747-8 | 2-2 | Yes, from a window seat | Solo travelers who want a classic feel |
| Legacy Lie-Flat | A340-600, A350 (old) | 2-2-2 | No | Couples who don’t mind the climb-over |
lufthansa first class experience
The Lufthansa first class experience is one of the finest in commercial aviation. It is a ground and air product meticulously designed to make you feel not just important, but supremely comfortable.
The physical experience begins at the Lufthansa First Class Terminal in Frankfurt. This is a dedicated, self-contained terminal building with its own security, passport control, and Porsche transfer.
You are driven across the tarmac in a Porsche Cayenne or Panamera directly to the aircraft stairs. This gate-free, crowd-free boarding process is the ultimate in travel seamlessness.
On board, the First Class seat is located in the nose cone of the Boeing 747-8 or the front of the Airbus A380. It is not a modern suite with a floor-to-ceiling door, but a large, open, and exquisitely crafted armchair.
The bed, when made, is supremely comfortable with a thick mattress pad and duvet. The true luxury here is the precise, warm, and intuitive service from a dedicated crew of two flight attendants for just eight passengers.
A luxury leisure traveler celebrating a special occasion will find this worth the expense. A business traveler accustomed to modern suite doors might find the openness less private than competitors like Emirates’ Game Changer suite.
- Ground Transfer: Porsche limousine tarmac transfer in Frankfurt.
- Dining: Caviar service, multi-course gourmet menu, and unlimited high-end champagne.
- Amenity Kit: High-end branded kit (often Zimmerli or Van Laack) with top-tier skincare.
- Seat: Large, open armchair that converts to a 2-meter lie-flat bed.
- Honest Limitation: The lack of a privacy door on the aircraft feels dated compared to newer competitors.
Key Takeaway: Lufthansa First Class is an event, not just a flight, with ground services that are almost impossible for any other airline to match.
lufthansa inflight entertainment and wifi
Lufthansa’s inflight entertainment system, called Lufthansa Media World, is a robust library. It is delivered on high-resolution touchscreens across the long-haul fleet.
The content selection is vast, with hundreds of movies, TV shows, and music albums. The interface is intuitive, and the screens are responsive on the newer A350 and 787 aircraft.
On-demand content includes a flight map, live TV on select aircraft, and a moving map display. The system includes a USB port and a universal power outlet at every seat in all cabin classes.
WiFi, branded as FlyNet, is available on nearly the entire long-haul fleet. The service offers different tiers from messaging-only packages to full-streaming passes.
A business traveler needing to work can rely on FlyNet’s streaming tier for emails and VPN access. A family will be relieved to know the IFE has a deep kids’ section with current titles to keep children occupied.
- WiFi Speed: Sufficient for browsing, email, and messaging, but is inconsistent for heavy video calls.
- Price Model: Tiered by time (1-hour, 4-hour, full flight) and data volume.
- IFE Limitation: The screen quality on the aging A340 is a generation behind the sharp modern panels.
- Honest Assessment: The lack of free messaging for all passengers in all cabins feels cheap for a premium carrier.
lufthansa food and meals quality
Lufthansa food and meals quality is a highlight, not an afterthought. The airline treats its culinary program with genuine seriousness.
In economy, you can expect a hot main course with two choices, a side salad, and a dessert. The second service before landing is usually a warm snack or a cold sandwich.
The food in business and first class is exceptional and genuine dine-on-demand. You are not just served a meal, you are presented with a multi-course dining experience at your leisure.
Lufthansa’s “Flying Chef” program on select routes puts a real chef in the galley. They are dedicated to plating and presenting meals to a fine-dining standard.
For a first-time international traveler, the complimentary bar service in economy is a delightful surprise. A glass of German Riesling with your meal is a small, civilized touch that makes the flight feel special.
The business class caviar service on certain First and some ultra-long-haul Business routes is a standout. The food quality here surpasses what is served in many of its Star Alliance partners’ lounges.
- Special Meal Requests: A comprehensive range of medical, religious, and dietary meals can be pre-ordered. This must be done via the booking portal at least 24 hours before departure.
- Honest Limitation: Economy breakfasts are the weak link, often a simple, bland cheese or egg sandwich. This is a common and disappointing theme across the industry.
lufthansa baggage fees and policy
Lufthansa baggage fees and policy depend entirely on the fare class you purchase. It is a classic carrier that uses a fare-family pricing model.
The most restrictive fare, Economy Light, includes only a personal item and one 8kg carry-on. A checked bag will incur a significant fee on long-haul routes.
The standard Economy Classic fare includes one checked bag up to 23kg. This applies to most transatlantic routes, making it the baseline fare for a normal trip.
Business and First Class fares include two generous checked bags, up to 32kg each. Premium Economy passengers typically receive two bags as well.
A budget traveler must be extremely wary of the Economy Light ticket. The checked bag fee can wipe out the fare savings, making a Classic or Flex fare the better overall deal.
A family with children’s gear should check Lufthansa’s policy for free items. One stroller and one child car seat are typically transported free of charge, in addition to the standard allowance.
- Carry-On Size: 55 x 40 x 23 cm, 8kg max weight.
- Overweight Bag Fee: Bags 24 to 32kg incur a steep, fixed fee.
- Golf/Ski Equipment: Treated as one piece of standard checked baggage in most fare classes.
- Verify the current fees: Confirm your specific fare’s allowance on the Lufthansa website before packing, as fee structures are adjusted frequently.
lufthansa seat selection guide
Navigating the Lufthansa seat selection guide is a post-booking strategic necessity. Seat reservations are not automatically free for all passengers.
Standard economy passengers on lower fares must pay an advance seat reservation fee. This fee varies by the route length and the seat’s location on the aircraft.
This fee can catch an unprepared traveler off guard during check-in. You might be assigned a middle seat at the airport if you do not pay in advance.
Premium Economy, Business, and First Class passengers can select seats for free. The selection window opens at the time of booking.
For a family, paying the seat reservation fee is a non-negotiable cost. Lufthansa does not guarantee families will be seated together, even with young children, if you do not pre-select seats.
A solo business traveler should use the fee to secure a window seat with direct aisle access in business class. On the 747-8, this specifically means booking a seat on the intimate upper deck.
- Advance Reservation Cost: Typically ranges from a moderate fee for a standard seat to a premium fee for an extra-legroom seat. Always verify current charges.
- Extra Legroom Seats: A few rows of seats with more pitch are available at a higher surcharge.
- Best Strategy: Book your ticket, then immediately go to the Lufthansa app and pay to secure your preferred seat.
lufthansa miles and more loyalty program
The Lufthansa Miles & More loyalty program is a powerhouse European frequent flyer scheme. It is widely considered one of the more complex programs to maximize.
You earn award and status miles based on the booking class, not just the distance flown. A cheap economy booking class earns very few miles.
This is a critical disadvantage for the budget traveler. Flying on deep-discount fares with Lufthansa or its partners contributes minimally to earning a free flight.
The program’s real value unlocks for a dedicated business traveler spending regularly on premium tickets. With status, you unlock Senator and HON Circle tiers with valuable ground service benefits.
One of the best uses of Miles & More miles is for flight upgrades. A savvy strategy is to buy a premium economy fare and use miles to upgrade to business class.
A significant program limitation is the expiry of miles. Miles typically expire 36 months after earning, regardless of account activity, unless you hold elite status.
- Partner Earning: Earn miles on all 26 Star Alliance carriers, including United Airlines.
- Redemption Options: Redeemable for award flights, upgrades, and the extensive Lufthansa WorldShop.
- Honest Verdict: A profitable program for a high-spend business traveler based in Europe, but a frustrating one for a casual, budget-focused North American flyer.
Key Takeaway: Miles & More rewards high-spending premium travelers generously but offers little value to the leisure traveler who buys the cheapest tickets.
lufthansa lounge access rules
Lufthansa lounge access rules are a maze of class of service and elite status criteria. The lounge quality in its Frankfurt and Munich hubs is, however, world-class.
A Business Class ticket grants you access to the Lufthansa Business Lounge on your day of travel. These lounges offer a solid buffet, workspaces, and a self-service bar.
A First Class ticket or HON Circle status unlocks the legendary First Class Lounges and the First Class Terminal. This is a completely different, white-tablecloth a la carte dining experience.
Star Alliance Gold status holders flying in any class on a Star Alliance flight can access Senator Lounges. This is a benefit often earned through a United Airlines MileagePlus Premier Gold status or higher.
A business traveler holding Senator status can use the arrivals lounges in Frankfurt. You can take a shower and have breakfast immediately after a long-haul flight before going to the office.
A passenger flying Premium Economy or Economy without status has no complimentary lounge access. You can purchase a day pass at the door, but the fee is often not justifiable for a short wait.
- Business Lounge: A high-quality, often crowded, work-focused space with hot and cold food.
- Senator Lounge: More exclusive, quieter, with superior food and drink selections.
- First Class Terminal: A self-contained, private terminal with a cigar lounge, personal barista, and five-star dining. This is the single best airline ground experience in Europe.
lufthansa check in process and tips
The Lufthansa check in process is efficient, digital-first, and thoroughly German. The key is knowing your exact window.
Online check-in opens 23 hours before departure for all passengers. This is when you should be logged into the app to finalize your seat, pay any fees, or secure an upgrade.
The primary benefit of early check-in is a better boarding group. Lufthansa boards by group number, a strict system based on your fare class and status.
For a first-time international traveler, this is a simple, well-signed process. The airport terminal layout is clearly marked, and Lufthansa staff are abundant and English-speaking.
A family should use online check-in the moment it opens. This is the final opportunity to ensure seats together are secured before the gate agent takes control of assignments.
- Step 1: Use the Lufthansa app to check in the second the 23-hour window opens.
- Step 2: Upload your passport details and any COVID-era documentation that may still be relevant. Check current health document requirements.
- Step 3: Pay for your checked bags online if your fare requires it; it is cheaper than at the airport.
- Step 4: Select the digital boarding pass on your phone or an Apple Watch for the smoothest transit.
Key Takeaway: The Lufthansa digital check-in is a masterclass in efficiency that rewards punctual passengers with a smoother airport journey.
lufthansa vs emirates qatar comparison
The Lufthansa vs Emirates Qatar comparison is a clash of aviation philosophies. It pits German operational precision against Middle Eastern opulence.
Lufthansa’s primary advantage is its network in Europe and the strength of the Star Alliance. You can reach more European cities more efficiently from Frankfurt or Munich.
Emirates offers a consistently superior hard product across its entire all-wide-body fleet. An A380 business class seat with direct aisle access and an onboard bar is a guarantee, not a maybe.
Qatar Airways has been perfecting the Qsuite, arguably the world’s best business class. This product offers a door, full privacy, and a consistent, industry-leading soft product.
A business traveler whose final destination is a small German city should choose Lufthansa for the non-stop flight. A luxury traveler traveling for pleasure between the U.S. and Southeast Asia will experience a far superior product on Emirates or Qatar.
The Lufthansa First Class Terminal is a unique asset that Emirates’ and Qatar’s First Class lounges cannot perfectly replicate. It is the one ground experience that tips the scales back in Lufthansa’s favor.
Lufthansa vs. Gulf Carriers
| Feature | Lufthansa | Emirates | Qatar Airways |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Class Hard Product | Inconsistent | Consistent 1-2-1 on A380/777 | Consistent Qsuite 1-2-1 |
| First Class Ground | Best in class (FRA) | Excellent | Excellent |
| In-Flight Dining | Excellent | Excellent | Exceptional |
| Route Network (USA-Europe) | Unbeatable | Transfer in DXB required | Transfer in DOH required |
| Best For | Efficiency, European endpoints | Consistent luxury, Middle East/Asia | Highest on-board privacy |
best lufthansa routes for each cabin
The best Lufthansa routes for each cabin are those where the product and the flight time align perfectly. Booking the right route is the final optimization step.
For Lufthansa First Class, the best route is from Frankfurt to North America’s West Coast. A 12-hour flight gives you ample time to enjoy the ground transfer, dine, sleep, and repeat the meal service.
For the new Allegris Business Class, target routes from Munich to Singapore or San Francisco. These are where Lufthansa deploys the new A350 aircraft with the suites.
For Premium Economy, the ideal route is an eastbound overnight flight from the U.S. East Coast to Germany. The extra legroom makes a 7-hour flight comfortable enough to sleep a few hours and arrive at a civilized 8:00 AM.
A budget traveler should use Lufthansa’s Economy Light fare on a short, single-bag hop. A daytime flight from New York to Frankfurt is manageable in a standard seat without breaking the bank.
A traveler looking for a classic experience must book the Boeing 747-8 upper deck. The small, private-feeling cabin on routes from Frankfurt to Los Angeles or Chicago is a dying breed.
- Best First Class Route: Frankfurt (FRA) to Los Angeles (LAX) on the Boeing 747-8.
- Best Allegris Route: Munich (MUC) to San Francisco (SFO) on the new Airbus A350.
- Best 747-8 Route: Frankfurt (FRA) to Chicago O’Hare (ORD) on the upper deck in business.
- Best Route to Avoid: Any long-haul route operated by the Airbus A340-600, especially in Business or Economy.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lufthansa Airlines
Is Lufthansa a good airline to fly with?
Lufthansa is a good, safe, and reliable airline with high operational standards and a strong safety record.
The experience varies wildly by aircraft, especially in business class.
It is an excellent choice if you fly a modern aircraft like the A350 or 787.
Do Lufthansa business class seats lie flat?
Yes, all Lufthansa long-haul business class seats convert to a fully lie-flat bed on their wide-body fleet.
The new Allegris business class suite on the A350 offers a private lie-flat bed with a closing door.
The older 2-2-2 business class seats on the A340 are lie-flat but lack direct aisle access.
What is included in Lufthansa premium economy?
Lufthansa premium economy includes a wider seat with 38 inches of pitch and a larger IFE screen.
It offers a complimentary amenity kit, a premium meal served on china, and two free checked bags.
This class provides priority boarding and a dedicated, quieter cabin section.
How strict is Lufthansa with carry-on baggage?
Lufthansa is moderately strict with carry-on baggage, which is enforced at the gate.
The maximum dimensions are 55 x 40 x 23 cm with an 8 kg weight limit.
Gate agents will tag and charge for non-compliant bags, so pre-pay checked bags online.
Does Lufthansa serve free food in economy class?
Yes, Lufthansa serves free, complimentary hot meals and beverages in long-haul economy class.
This includes a full bar service with free wine, beer, and spirits.
On short-haul European flights, a snack and water are typically offered instead.
What lounges do Lufthansa business class passengers get?
Business Class passengers receive access to the Lufthansa Business Lounge at their departure airport.
These lounges offer a hot and cold buffet, workspaces, and showers.
First Class or HON Circle members have access to the superior Senator and First Class lounges.
Your Lufthansa journey can be a five-star revelation or a three-star disappointment. The difference is entirely in your hands at the booking screen.
Open the seat map. Check the aircraft type. Pay the fee for your seat in advance. Always verify baggage rules and the Allegris cabin availability directly on Lufthansa’s website before booking.
A little research transforms a gamble into a guaranteed strategy. Book the right plane, and you will have one of the best flights of your life.
