Lufthansa group orders 80 new efficient aircraft, eyes 120 more

Wednesday, December 20, 2023

Lufthansa Group has finalized an ambitious procurement of 80 advanced short and medium-haul aircraft, marking a significant milestone in its fleet modernization initiative. The Executive Board’s decisions encompass:

• Procurement of 40 Airbus A220-300s with an additional 20 purchasing options.
• Acquisition of 40 Boeing 737-8 MAX jets along with 60 purchasing options.
• Securing options for 40 more aircraft from the Airbus A320 family.

This comprehensive acquisition plan received approval from the Supervisory Board today. Dr. Detlef Kayser, a Member of the Executive Board overseeing Fleet and Technology, emphasized, “This aircraft acquisition accelerates the largest fleet modernization in our company’s history. It enlarges our existing order list of approximately 200 aircraft to 280, alongside an extra 120 purchasing options for cutting-edge short- and medium-haul planes.”

He further explained the strategic significance, stating, “We’re pleased with Airbus and Boeing’s offerings, aligning with our commercial and technological criteria. The decision to include Boeing 737-8 MAX enhances our flexibility for future short- and medium-haul aircraft procurement. These new-generation planes not only elevate passenger comfort but also exhibit greater efficiency, economy, and reduced CO2 emissions by up to 30% compared to their predecessors. This order underscores our airlines’ commitment to sustainability and our proactive stance in reducing carbon emissions.”

Details of the acquired aircraft:

• Airbus A220-300: This modern aircraft features 148 seats and consumes approximately 2.5 liters of fuel per 100 passenger kilometers. It’s designated for Lufthansa City Airlines, catering to short-haul routes from Frankfurt and Munich. The first delivery is scheduled for 2026.
• Boeing 737-8 MAX: Representing the latest evolution and the fourth generation of the world’s most prevalent commercial aircraft, it boasts 190 seats across Business and Economy Classes. With highly efficient engines from CFM International, it’s expected to consume only around 2.2 liters per 100 passenger-kilometers. Initial delivery is anticipated in the third quarter of 2027, contributing to the growth plans of Lufthansa Group’s airlines.
• Airbus A320 Family: Apart from confirmed orders, the Lufthansa Group has secured an additional 40 purchase options for aircraft from the A320 family, which is a well-established model series currently operating around 450 aircraft across the group’s short- and medium-haul flights. This strategic move ensures advantageous conditions for future orders within the Airbus offering.

These acquisitions stand as a significant stride in the Lufthansa Group’s efforts to reduce carbon emissions, aligning with its commitment to slash net carbon emissions by 50% by 2030 compared to 2019, eventually aiming for carbon neutrality by 2050. The total value of these aircraft orders, approximately USD 9 billion at list prices, is not anticipated to substantially impact the Group’s capital expenditure for the years 2023 and 2024, as outlined in its current medium-term plan. Net investments in 2023 are projected to be between EUR 2.5 billion and EUR 3 billion, with a similar level expected for capital expenditure in 2024.

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