Lufthansa is spreading its orders for future long-haul aircraft requirements across Airbus and Boeing, having selected both the 777-9X and up to 55 A350s.
While not disclosing the number of 777-9Xs it plans to acquire, Lufthansa has committed to 25 A350s and holds options for 30 of the aircraft, the latter convertible to the larger A350-1000.
The order, which comes six months after Lufthansa made the strategic decision to become an all-Airbus operator for its single-aisle fleet, is a significant boost for the A350 program and builds on the manufacturer’s relationship with Lufthansa, which is its largest customer. The airline and its group subsidiaries operate all types of Airbus aircraft from the A319 to the A380.
Earlier this year, the Lufthansa Group ordered six 777-300ERs for wholly-owned Swiss International Airlines. Boeing will deliver the first of Lufthansa Cargo’s five new 777 Freighters later this year.
Lufthansa today operates nearly 400 Airbus and 93 Boeing aircraft within its group fleets.
The formal launch of the 777X family is targeted for later this year and entry into service around the end of the decade.
