German Carrier Advances Long-Term Fleet Renewal Strategy
FRANKFURT — Lufthansa is evaluating a new long-haul aircraft order that could see the airline expand either its Airbus A350-1000 fleet or its Boeing 777-9 commitment, as the German carrier continues a broad modernization program aimed at improving efficiency and supporting future growth.
The decision, expected next year, would represent another significant investment in Lufthansa’s widebody fleet and could provide a major win for either Airbus or Boeing. Industry observers note that the order is likely to favor one manufacturer rather than split between both aircraft types.
The airline’s review comes as Frankfurt Airport and Munich Airport remain the primary hubs for its long-haul operations. Lufthansa is balancing fleet expansion plans with aircraft delivery schedules, operational requirements, and network optimization efforts.
Lufthansa Reviews Future Widebody Needs
According to Aero Telegraph, citing Aviation Week and comments made by Lufthansa Group Chief Executive Officer Carsten Spohr during an internal company event, Lufthansa plans to order additional Airbus A350-1000 or Boeing 777-9 aircraft in 2027.
Spohr did not disclose the potential size of the order, but the move would further strengthen Lufthansa’s long-term fleet renewal strategy and shape the composition of its future long-haul fleet.
Shift in Fleet Planning
For several years, Lufthansa’s long-haul modernization plan centered on three aircraft models: the Airbus A350-900, Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, and Boeing 777-9. The larger Airbus A350-1000 was not initially part of the carrier’s long-term fleet roadmap.
That changed after repeated delays in the Boeing 777-9 certification and delivery program created uncertainty around fleet replacement schedules. In response, Lufthansa placed an order in 2023 for ten Airbus A350-1000 aircraft.
The airline expanded that commitment in 2024, increasing the order from ten to fifteen aircraft.
According to Carsten Spohr, Lufthansa now expects to receive its first Airbus A350-1000 in October 2026, earlier than previously forecast. The aircraft is expected to play a key role in replacing older long-haul jets while supporting network growth.
Boeing 777-9 Program Continues to Face Delays
Lufthansa remains one of the launch customers for the Boeing 777-9, but the aircraft program has encountered several delays over the years.
The airline now expects delivery of its first Boeing 777-9 during the first quarter of 2027 following another schedule adjustment. Despite the anticipated arrival date, Lufthansa no longer plans to deploy the aircraft on long-haul services during the 2027 summer travel season.
Capacity Management Until Deliveries Arrive
To maintain sufficient long-haul capacity before the new aircraft enter service, Lufthansa plans to keep several Airbus A340-300 aircraft in operation longer than originally intended.
The strategy provides the carrier with additional flexibility while it awaits deliveries of both the Airbus A350-1000 and Boeing 777-9.
If Lufthansa ultimately chooses the Boeing 777-9 for its next aircraft order, those jets are expected to be based primarily in Frankfurt. By contrast, additional Airbus A350-1000 aircraft could be split between Frankfurt and Munich, giving the airline greater flexibility across its two largest hubs.
Notably, Lufthansa has yet to receive any Airbus A350-1000 or Boeing 777-9 aircraft from its existing orders.
Network Simplification and Efficiency Measures
Fleet modernization is only one part of Lufthansa’s broader transformation strategy.
The airline is also seeking to streamline its European operations and improve profitability through network adjustments and fleet rationalization.
According to Spohr, Lufthansa plans to remove 15 additional aircraft from service in 2027. The carrier also intends to discontinue additional unprofitable routes as it focuses on strengthening operational efficiency and maximizing returns across its network.
Earlier this year, Spohr indicated that Lufthansa intended to place another long-haul aircraft order. In May, the airline confirmed orders for ten additional Airbus A350-900 aircraft and ten Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners.
Those aircraft are scheduled for delivery between 2032 and 2034 and will further support Lufthansa’s long-term fleet renewal program.
Cargo Business Remains a Priority
Beyond passenger operations, Lufthansa Group continues to invest in its cargo division.
The company has already committed to the Boeing 777-8F freighter for Lufthansa Cargo, reinforcing its strategy of modernizing both passenger and freight fleets.
At present, Lufthansa has not placed an order for the Airbus A350F and remains outside the customer base for Airbus’ next-generation freighter aircraft.
Outlook
Lufthansa’s upcoming aircraft order represents another important milestone in its long-term modernization efforts. The decision will determine whether Airbus secures additional A350-1000 business or Boeing strengthens its position with more 777-9 aircraft.
As the airline continues to navigate delivery delays, fleet retirements, and evolving market demands, the next order will play a significant role in shaping Lufthansa’s future long-haul network and operational strategy for the coming decades.
