The Lufthansa Group has confirmed plans to expand its fleet with five additional Airbus A350-1000 aircraft, raising its total order for the model to 15. These new aircraft, valued at $2 billion at list prices, are scheduled for delivery between 2028 and 2030. Known for its fuel efficiency and larger passenger capacity, the A350-1000 is a cornerstone of Lufthansa’s ongoing efforts to modernize its fleet and reduce emissions.
With this acquisition, the Lufthansa Group will operate a total of 60 A350-900s and 15 A350-1000s, solidifying its position as one of Airbus’s top global customers.
This purchase reflects the Lufthansa Group’s commitment to maintaining a strong partnership with Airbus. Carsten Spohr, Chairman and CEO of Lufthansa Group, highlighted the importance of this relationship, stating, “Our today’s order underscores our great confidence in our long-standing, close and successful partnership with Airbus. With the state-of-the-art A350 long-haul jets, we are accelerating the largest fleet modernization in our history. We are investing more than ever before in our history to make air transport more sustainable, to achieve our CO₂ reduction targets and at the same time offer our customers the highest level of comfort with a first-class travel experience.”
The expansion of the Lufthansa Group’s Airbus A350-1000 fleet will also receive a boost with the integration of ITA Airways in January 2024. This addition will contribute another 100 short- and long-haul aircraft to the group’s operations.
Commitment to Sustainability
Lufthansa Group has emphasized sustainability in its fleet development strategy. The new A350 models are set to replace older, less efficient four-engine aircraft, such as the Boeing 747-400 and Airbus A340 variants. This transition aligns with the company’s goal of reducing fuel consumption and emissions by introducing modern, twin-engine long-haul jets.
Compared to their predecessors, the A350-1000 aircraft consume up to 35% less fuel, leading to a corresponding reduction in CO₂ emissions. The Lufthansa Group aims to halve its net CO₂ emissions by 2030 compared to 2019, with a long-term target of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.
Features of the A350-1000
According to Airbus, the Airbus A350-1000 offers advanced features tailored for efficiency and passenger comfort. Measuring 73.8 meters in length, the aircraft provides 15% more seating capacity than the A350-900. Its advanced design supports Lufthansa’s objectives of combining sustainability with a premium travel experience.
Deliveries of the first 10 A350-1000s to Lufthansa, initially ordered in March 2023, are set to begin in April 2026. These state-of-the-art aircraft are expected to serve as key components in Lufthansa’s fleet modernization plans, supporting its operational and environmental goals.
The Lufthansa Group continues to lead efforts in modernizing its fleet with innovative aircraft, ensuring that sustainability, comfort, and efficiency remain at the forefront of its operations.
