seat assignment lufthansa

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Lufthansa Boarding Process & Groups — Everything You Need To Know

Jeff Brownson

Former Content Contributor

24 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 40 U.S. States Visited:

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

35 Published Articles 3198 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 47 U.S. States Visited: 28

Table of Contents

Lufthansa boarding process, long-haul lufthansa flights, continental (europe) lufthansa flights, quick boarding, biometric boarding, final thoughts.

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Lufthansa is Germany’s largest airline and has its base of operations and main hub in Frankfurt, Germany .

As one of the founding members of the Star Alliance, Lufthansa has long been an innovator in the airline world. Lately, it has taken to working to improve the airplane boarding process.

Adding turnstiles that allow passengers to scan their own boarding passes at some airports and facial recognition systems that don’t even require passengers to have a boarding pass at others has allowed Lufthansa to speed up a process that has been largely stagnant for many years.

With these advancements in boarding, it’s not surprising that Lufthansa can load all of the passengers on even its largest planes in well under half an hour. That’s right — Lufthansa can actually put over 350 people on a plane in about 20 minutes .

What does that mean for you? It means that when it comes time to board a Lufthansa flight, things are going to move very quickly, and you’ll be much more comfortable if you know how the process works ahead of time.

Luckily, that’s what we are here for. Let’s take a look at the details of Lufthansa’s boarding process so you won’t be left behind.

Lufthansa somehow manages to make its boarding process both quite simple and fairly complex at the same time.

Rather than just skip boarding first class passengers when the plane doesn’t have a first class cabin, Lufthansa moves a couple of other groups of passengers around and provides a separate boarding procedure for its short-haul flights.

Lufthansa uses the same pre-boarding groups that you usually see on most airlines and then offers priority boarding to several groups of premium cabin passengers, Miles & More elite members, and Star Alliance elite members.

Once priority boarding is complete, general boarding is done in 4 groups on long-haul flights and 3 groups on continental flights.

Lufthansa has also implemented procedures that will speed up the boarding process like Quick Boarding turnstiles and biometric boarding.

Although the lines may look long, you will be surprised by how quickly Lufthansa can get all of its passengers on board!

For the purposes of boarding, Lufthansa seems to be defining long-haul flights as any flights that extend beyond continental Europe . These flights will be flown with larger planes that have first, business, and economy cabins.

Pre-boarding

• Passengers with reduced mobility
• Unaccompanied minors
• Families traveling with small children under 5

Priority Group 1

• First class passengers
• Miles & More HON Circle members

Priority Group 2

• Business class passengers
• Miles & More Senator members
• Star Alliance Gold members
• Premium economy passengers
• Economy class passengers with a window seat and companions
• Economy class passengers with middle seats and companions
• Economy class passengers with aisle seats

Continental Europe flights are just what the name sounds like — flights that do not extend beyond the European region .

These flights are typically flown on smaller planes that do not have a first class cabin. Because of this, the boarding process needs to be adjusted slightly, as you will see below.

Hot Tip: On most flights, the continental European business class seats are simply economy seats with the middle seats blocked off . Passengers will have a little more elbow room and upgraded service, but the experience is a far cry from long-haul premium classes. Make sure you are aware of this when paying more or using more miles for a “business class” experience within Europe!

• Economy class passengers traveling on a Flex ticket

Lufthansa uses what it calls Quick Boarding turnstiles at gates in Frankfurt, Munich, and several other airports around the world. Instead of gate agents needing to scan each passenger’s boarding pass, a gate can have several of these Quick Boarding turnstiles all working at once.

Passengers simply step up to the turnstile, scan their boarding passes face down, and wait for approval. Once a passenger is approved, the gate will open and allow the passenger to pass through to board the plane.

These scanners work even more quickly than the gate agents could scan passengers, and there are often more of them, so the boarding speed is increased even further .

In the rare cases where a passenger has had a change in seat assignment due to an upgrade or any other reason, the Quick Boarding turnstile will print out a new paper boarding pass before opening the gate.

Lufthansa gate agents are still present during the boarding process, but they are freed up to help passengers who have problems or need to make last-minute changes.

Imagine boarding a plane without having to show a boarding pass, a passport , or even a regular ID.

Well, you don’t have to imagine that anymore! Lufthansa is currently using its new biometric boarding gates at Los Angeles, Miami, New York-JFK, and Orlando and looking to expand to other airports across the U.S.

These biometric gates use facial recognition to identify each passenger and approve them to board the plane. As you walk up to the gate, the cameras scan your face and immediately begin to communicate with U.S. Customs and Border Protection databases. Once you are approved (taking only a few seconds), you are given the ok to board the plane.

Facial recognition gates at LAX have allowed boarding speeds to increase greatly, with Lufthansa being able to board 350 people on to an A-380 in about 20 minutes during testing.

Other airlines like American and Delta are also starting to take advantage of facial recognition, so it won’t be long before you’ll be seeing these new gates in use at airports across the country.

If you travel to Europe or between countries in Europe and like to use Star Alliance airlines, it won’t be too long before you find yourself waiting to board a Lufthansa flight.

Lufthansa has made some advances to the boarding process over the past couple of years, and the first time you see its process, it may feel very unfamiliar. With biometric boarding, you may not even need a boarding pass or ID to get on the plane! That’s not something you see with most airlines.

If you’ve read through the details of the Lufthansa boarding procedures here, you’ll be ready for whatever technology it is using at your specific gate. You will know just what to do when that Quick Boarding process starts up, and you won’t miss your turn to get on the plane.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many boarding groups are there on lufthansa.

Lufthansa uses 4 groups on long-haul flights and 3 groups on continental flights for its general boarding. It has certain passengers who are eligible to pre-board and certain groups who are given priority boarding. In total, it has 7 boarding groups on long-haul flights and 6 groups on continental flights.

Are Lufthansa flights assigned seating?

Yes, Lufthansa uses assigned seating on all of its flights. Seats can be selected at booking or any time through check-in for no cost for most flights. Premium seats will require a surcharge payment when selected by the passenger.

Who has pre-boarding on Lufthansa?

Lufthansa allows passengers with reduced mobility, unaccompanied minors, and any families traveling with small children under 5 who may need extra time to pre-board on all of its flights. If you have reduced mobility and will need extra assistance to board, be sure to contact Lufthansa ahead of time to arrange special services.

Who has priority boarding on Lufthansa?

On long-haul Lufthansa flights, first class passengers, business class passengers, Miles & More HON Circle members, Miles & More Senator members, and Star Alliance Gold members have priority boarding.

On Lufthansa flights within continental Europe, business class passengers, Miles & More HON Circle members, Miles & More Senator members, Star Alliance Gold members, and economy class passengers traveling on a Flex ticket will have priority boarding.

When can families board on Lufthansa?

Families traveling with small children under 5 who need extra time to board and get settled are allowed to pre-board on all Lufthansa flights.

What are Quick Boarding turnstiles on Lufthansa?

The Quick Boarding turnstiles that Lufthansa uses for boarding at some airports allow each passenger to scan their own boarding pass at the gate. Once verification is complete, the turnstile gate will open, allowing the passenger to board the aircraft. The process speeds boarding because there can be multiple Quick Boarding turnstiles operating at the same time.

How does Lufthansa facial recognition work?

Lufthansa has implemented biometric facial recognition gates at some U.S. airports. Cameras in these gates scan your face as you approach. The data is then compared with U.S. Customs and Border Protection databases. Once approved, you are allowed to board the plane. No boarding pass or ID is needed at facial recognition gates.

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About Jeff Brownson

Since discovering miles and points in 2010, Jeff has traveled to over 35 countries, flying in first class, business class, and sometimes even in coach. Whether he’s staying in a hostel dorm, or in a luxury suite at a 5 star hotel, Jeff is constantly looking for the best deal to make travel as close to free as possible.

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The Guide to Lufthansa Airlines Economy Class

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If you’re searching for flights from North America to Germany — or to lots of other European destinations, for that matter — chances are your options will include Lufthansa Airlines. It’s the biggest carrier in Germany and, along with its partners Austrian, Swiss, Brussels and Eurowings airlines, the second-largest airline in all of Europe. Lufthansa is also part of the 26-member Star Alliance, meaning you can use miles in partner programs like United Airlines MileagePlus or Air Canada Aeroplan to book Lufthansa flights.

With so many choices for economy class flights to international destinations, it is useful to know what to expect before you book. Here are the basics of Lufthansa Airlines’ economy class to help you decide whether this is the airline you want to fly.

Lufthansa economy fares

Lufthansa offers four different fare types in its economy class. From most to least restrictive, these tickets are called Economy Light, Economy Basic, Economy Basic Plus and Economy Flex.

The differences between Economy Light and Economy Basic on Lufthansa are baggage allowance and flexibility. Economy Light flyers can only fly with a carry-on and personal item, and tickets can’t be changed, rebooked or refunded. Economy Basic fares include a check bag and while also nonrefundable, allow changes for a fee.

All international economy tickets on Lufthansa include meals, beverages, and in-flight entertainment. The tickets range in terms of flexibility, baggage allowance and eligibility for flight changes and refundability.

Lufthansa economy vs. Economy Light fares

In recent years, airlines have been rolling out a ticket type that’s even more economical than economy. United, Delta and American Airlines call it basic economy . Lufthansa calls its low-cost long-haul ticket class Economy Light. It works similarly to most other airlines’ ultra-low-fare options: less free baggage, limited or no seat selection, and less overall flexibility for your ticket.

Most notably, the lower ticket price comes with a high risk of getting stuck in a middle seat, possibly separated from your travel companions. On a trans-Atlantic flight, that’s a pretty unpleasant prospect, making the next level — economy class — far more appealing.

What's included in economy

In-flight food.

If you’re flying a long-haul flight in Lufthansa Airlines’ economy class, expect a three-course meal, along with free snacks, free soft drinks and alcoholic beverages for purchase. Depending on your long-haul flight length, even more food, like a second meal, may be offered.

Free checked bag

Unless you booked an Economy Light fare, you’ll be able to check a bag for free, in addition to your free carry-on and personal item. Check Lufthansa’s baggage calculator for your exact flight to be sure.

Average seats

Technically, Lufthansa’s main cabin seats are pretty average: On a Boeing 747-8 Intercontinental aircraft that Lufthansa flies from Chicago to Frankfurt, you get a typical seat width of about 17.1 inches and a decent 31-inch seat pitch — the distance from the back of your seat to the back of the seat in front of you. But the experience is slightly better than the numbers suggest. The seat backs have a “slim” construction, so you get a little more of that 31 inches to stretch your legs.

That’s nice, but if you can afford a splurge on an extra legroom seat in premium economy, do. On the same Boeing 747-8, those seats offer a roomier 19 inches in width, an impressive 38 inches of pitch and greater recline.

Lufthansa also offers an unusual way to make your flight more comfortable: Pay to keep the middle seat next to you empty. For about $42 (35 euros), you can — in certain cases, like continental routes — block off a middle seat next to yours, sparing you some awkward elbow wrestling for space on the armrest and giving you a little more room to stretch out and breathe.

Can I choose my seat in Lufthansa Economy class?

Top-tier elites in Lufthansa’s Miles & More frequent flyer program, known as HON Circle members, can choose their seats in economy in advance for free, as can any travelers flying on a ticket booked with miles. Most everyone else must either wait until check-in (23 hours before departure) or pay for advance seat selection.

Depending on the distance flown, choosing your standard seat more than 23 hours in advance costs between $14 and $42 each way (12-35 euros). Standard seats in a preferred seating zone cost $20-$66 (17 to 55 euros), while extra legroom seats start at around $30 (25 euros) and run up to around $132 (110 euros) for longer flights.

Booking award flights

About the miles & more frequent flyer program.

Lufthansa’s Miles & More frequent flyer program offers you a chance to earn miles redeemable for award tickets by flying Lufthansa or its partners, or by booking hotels, rental cars and vacations through the Miles & More website. You can earn miles even faster using the Lufthansa Miles & More Credit Card .

Lufthansa’s frequent flyer program has a huge drawback: Unlike many other airlines that let you transfer points from bank loyalty programs like Chase Ultimate Rewards® , American Express Membership Rewards , Citi ThankYou and Capital One , Lufthansa doesn’t. Even transfer-friendly hotel programs like Marriott Bonvoy , which has a large list of transfer partners , won't allow you to convert their award currency into Lufthansa miles.

So you’re limited in the number of ways you can build up a balance in your Lufthansa Miles & More account.

But, because Lufthansa has so many partnerships, you have plenty of opportunities to use other programs’ miles or points to book flights on Lufthansa. The difference is you book through the other airline’s website.

How to get the best deal for a Lufthansa economy award flight

Because Lufthansa has no transfer partners, you don’t have as many options for comparison shopping as you do with other airlines. That is, a traveler with a stack of Chase Ultimate Rewards® points can compare the cost of their flight on all of Chase’s transfer partners to find the best deal.

But to book an award flight with Lufthansa, you need to either have the miles in your Lufthsansa frequent flyer account or you need to have miles or points with a partner, like fellow Star Alliance-member United, then book directly through that partner’s website. In the rare circumstance you have both, it can’t hurt to compare.

» Learn more: Your guide to the Star Alliance

First, search for your date and destination at the Miles & More website , where you might find a Chicago-to-Frankfurt flight in May for 30,000 Miles & More miles each way on either Lufthansa or United.

Then, try the same dates and destination through United’s website, which in this case shows Chicago-to-Frankfurt flights on either Lufthansa or United also starting at around 30,000 United MileagePlus miles each way.

Often, the costs will be similar. So you can make your choice based on variables like flight times and seat sizes. But depending on your dates and destination, you could find deals, too.

The bottom line

Lufthansa Economy class can be a great way to get to Europe or beyond on a budget. You get a smidge more legroom than you would on many other airlines, plus a free checked bag, meals and snacks, and both free and paid options for choosing your seat in advance. Without transfer partners, the airline’s frequent flyer program, Miles & More, makes it hard to earn miles for award travel through any means other than flying.

But if you collect miles in any of Lufthansa’s dozens of partner programs — including United, Swiss and Air Canada — you can redeem them for an economy class seat on Lufthansa directly through that partner airline’s website.

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On a similar note...

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Main content

Economy class, quality on every route.

Here you will find information about our comfortable seating, the entertainment programme, Internet access, and food and beverages in Lufthansa Economy Class.

There follows a video about Lufthansa Economy Class.

Whether it’s a short flight or a long one – comfortable seating awaits you in Economy Class

There’s plenty of room both on short and medium-haul flights. Thanks to the slim construction of the backrests, our seating provides more legroom so that you can stretch your legs out comfortably in Economy Class too. On long-haul flights, the wide seat cushions measuring over 40 cm and the individually adjustable headrests on each seat ensure you’re comfortable.

Lufthansa Allegris

The new Lufthansa Economy Class will offer you exactly the flexibility and extras that will make your travel experience perfect. No matter how long the flight lasts, you will be seated comfortably, enjoying excellent service and lots of personal space, and can make your journey even more individual and comfortable with little amenities.

On-board entertainment

On long-haul flights, you can look forward to our wide range of in-flight entertainment. The very latest movies, international radio stations and a large selection of TV programmes await you. Just lean back and enjoy your flight.

Food and beverages

We offer you menus that suit your departure time and destination. Our wide selection of drinks perfectly complements your meals. On selected routes, we also serve you a ‘movie snack’ during the in-flight entertainment.

Our Europe fares

With the Europe fares offered by the Lufthansa Group airlines (Lufthansa, Austrian Airlines and SWISS), you are sure to find the fare that will perfectly suit your needs.

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Lufthansa Check-in

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Does Lufthansa have online check-in?

• Yes, Lufthansa's Web Check-in allows you to check-in starting 23 hours before your flight departs. At online check-in you can choose your seat, print your boarding pass for your convenience, or have it sent to your mobile phone, at home, at the office or en route, for yourself or any other passengers you are traveling with, ages two and older.

Check in now for your Lufthansa flight

What are the requirements for using Web Check-in?

• • Check-in starting 23 hours before your flight is scheduled to depart. Check-in deadlines vary by airport.
• Check-in deadlines vary by airport. Click here for more information.
• You are not a special needs passenger (ie. Unaccompanied Minor).

Can I use Web Check-in if I have bags to check?

Yes, with online check-in you can now board faster, even if traveling with bags. If you are only traveling with hand luggage, you can continue directly to security and then on to your gate. Any other luggage can be checked in on the way to your flight at one of the designated Lufthansa baggage drop-off counters. Contact Lufthansa for more information.

Can I change/select my seat with Web Check-in?

As early as 23 hours before your flight departure, you can check in online, select your seat, and conveniently print your online boarding pass or have it sent to your mobile phone.

Online seat selection is free of charge from 23 hours before your flight departure.

For a charge, Economy class passengers can reserve seats in advance depending on their chosen fare or booking class.

Lufthansa HON Circle Members and Senators can reserve their seats in advance free of charge irrespective of their travel class. The only exception to this is if they book an Economy Class Light fare on a European flight.

Contact Lufthansa for more information.

If I plan to check in at the airport, how much time should I allot?

Lufthansa recommends you arrive at the airport 2 hours before your flight's scheduled departure. View Check-in Times

SeatGuru was created to help travelers choose the best seats and in-flight amenities.

Simple Flying

Lufthansa to charge for seat selection on economy light tickets.

Lufthansa will begin randomly allocating seats during check-in for base economy tickets.

In a bid to increase revenue, Lufthansa has introduced an 'amendment fee' for passengers looking to change their seat assignment. Those traveling Economy Light, the base fare, will now be randomly allocated a seat and have to pay to change this. This is the same system as Ryanair and other low-cost European airlines, albeit with a much higher seat fee.

A step down for travelers

First spotted by One Mile At A Time, Lufthansa has a new seating policy that brings it far closer to its budget competitors. Starting June 21st, the German carrier will charge a €25/$35 fee for anyone looking to change their seats in Economy Light. Currently, seat selection is free during check-in, 23 hours before the flight, and paid at any time before that.

However, from Wednesday, Lufthansa will randomly allocate a seat to you during check-in, potentially leaving you in a middle seat on a short, medium, or even long-haul flight. The €50/$70 'amendment' fee on roundtrip flights could be a huge factor for those choosing between full-service Lufthansa and low-cost airlines on shorter flights.

Notably, while Lufthansa has adopted the tactics of its competitors, the fees are drastically higher. For example, seat prices on Ryanair cost as little as €3 ($3.2) and rise to €14 ($15) for extra legroom options. At €25/$35, Lufthansa's prices are outrageous on a short-hop across Europe and can only be argued for a long-haul service.

What else do you get?

In reality, the differences between budget airlines and full-service ones keep reducing every day. Now, Lufthansa's biggest short-haul advantage remains that it flies in and out of Europe's biggest airports, which usually offer better connectivity and amenities. While frequent flyer and status miles are useful too, Economy Light fares usually only attract a percentage of the usual earnings.

Lufthansa points out that it includes one 8kg carry-on bag and snacks with its fare, two offerings that are chargeable in low-cost airlines. However, considering the usual fare difference between these airlines, passengers may be wise to see how much sense it is flying with a €25/$35 seat fee each way and no scope for refunds or changes.

However, the dynamic changes in medium- or long-haul flights, where the importance of padded seats and hot meals is much more. Even then, paying for every seat and piece of baggage may make other airlines seem more attractive.

Dealing with pressures

While Lufthansa uses the phrase "of course" while explaining the policy, the real reason behind the policy is obviously to boost revenues. Given the tough two years it has had, the carrier now wants to take advantage of returning passengers and maximize the ancillary products it sells. Sadly for passengers, it seems like the only thing to do is take a hard look at which flight to take and brace for a middle seat.

What do you think about Lufthansa's new seat policy? Let us know in the comments!

Source: One Mile At A Time

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Turns out that the SFO-> Frankfurt flight is on United, the remaining are on Lufthansa (codeshare). If I book it all on United.com I get a really reasonable price, and can upgrade to economy plus for minimal $$$ on the United flight and cannot get seat assignments on the remaining flights .

If I go and book on Lufthansa, I can reserve seats on the other two flights , but not the United flight , and it will cost over twice as much (the total cost of the ticket).

Buying them each on their own airline website will then cause the price to increase three times.

I have knee implants and need to get the seats with the extra legroom. Waiting until 23 hours before my flight does not give me hope of sitting anywhere except the way back middle. Plus 23 hours before our last flight we'll be in the Serengeti on safari and there's a big chance we won't be able to check in until we arrive at the airport a few hours before our flight .

I know that codeshare partners don't like to let anybody reserve seats unless you are flying their airline and booked on their website. I have read that when you reserve your flight United will give you both a United confirmation number and a Lufthansa confirmation number and you can then call Lufthansa and they will let you purchase a seat assignment for $200. Is this true? I tried calling both airlines but after waiting as long time on hold decided to ask the expert community first.

The biggest hassles I have had with codeshares are with LH/UA. Their systems just don't work well with each other.

You MUST book your flight using LH's flight number to be able to preselect or purchase the seats you want before the 24 hour check in time. If you book through UA and your flight shows a UA flight number, you are out-of-luck. When you book your ticket call UA and tell them what you want to do. The agents are able to book it under a LH flight number, but you won't be able to do it online.

I never had an issue either way and have done it often. You need to get your record locator number for both carriers (they are not the same). For example get your LH record locator number from UA and use it to get your LH seats.

Ive had this issue on occasion when using ANA/LH codeshares.

My experience is that LH will initially tell you it is not possible. I have found that I can sometimes get a seat assignment if i am persistent.

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Hey, my seat upgrade disappeared, but Lufthansa kept my money

All Ronald LaPedis wants to do is fly from San Francisco to Bangalore, India, in relative comfort. But a code-sharing nightmare threatens to send him to the back of the plane.

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Q: I need your help with a Lufthansa seat upgrade that wasn’t delivered as promised. I planned to fly from San Francisco to Bangalore, India, via Frankfurt on United Airlines and Lufthansa. I paid $275 on the Lufthansa website for an upgrade to premium economy on my flight from Frankfurt to Bangalore, but could not upgrade because it was a United code-share for the Lufthansa flight. All I could do was pay for an exit-row seat.

At my request, my travel agent reissued the ticket so that both Lufthansa flights had Lufthansa flight numbers. I first requested an upgrade for the United flights on the United website, then I went back to the Lufthansa website to upgrade those flights. The Lufthansa website showed that my record was locked and that I needed to call the Lufthansa reservation line.

I got multiple stories from multiple Lufthansa agents. One agent told me that both my upgrade and exit-row seat reservation were canceled by Lufthansa’s computer system due to the ticket being reissued to change the code-share flight, and another told me that the problem was because I applied for upgrades on the United flights.

Whatever the cause, my record was completely locked up on the Lufthansa system and could not be accessed by Lufthansa agents. After going back and forth with both United and Lufthansa, with each blaming the other, I finally canceled the entire flight.

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I’d like a full refund of the upgrade and exit-row seat ($310) paid to Lufthansa, because the problem was within its reservations system. Lufthansa says these fees are nonrefundable.

— Ronald LaPedis, San Bruno, Calif.

A: I agree with you — if you paid for an upgrade through your airline, you should receive one. But which airline? This was what’s known as a “code-share” flight, an odd airline industry practice where one airline poses as another. In this case, United was pretending to operate a flight from Frankfurt to Bangalore, even though it was a Lufthansa flight. As part of that process, it led you to believe it could accept a $275 fee to upgrade your seat. Turns out a technical glitch in Lufthansa’s system prevented the airline from fulfilling the promise, and it had nothing to do with the code-share.

This reminds me a little bit of the Chinese finger trap. The money you paid for the upgrade only goes one way. The seat-reservation fee you paid was nonrefundable, even though Lufthansa couldn’t give you the seat you paid for. How is that fair?

And don’t even get me started on the seat. Your “premium” economy seat has a barely civil amount of legroom and space, an amount all economy-class seats used to have. You shouldn’t have to pay extra for it. You shouldn’t have to fear being stuck in a substandard seat to Bangalore. It shouldn’t be allowed.

It looks as if you were working with a travel agent. A qualified travel adviser should be able to help secure a refund after an upgrade failure. If that doesn’t work, you can appeal the decision to someone higher up at Lufthansa. I list the names, numbers and email addresses of the airline’s customer-service executives on my consumer-advocacy site: elliott.org/company-contacts/lufthansa .

In the end, we fixed this one together. You pushed your case with a vice president at Lufthansa, and I also contacted the airline requesting a resolution. Lufthansa refunded the $310 you had to spend on an upgrade and seat assignment.

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Lufthansa Seat Map

Seat Map 747 8 Lufthansa

Lufthansa A380 Seat Map (A380-800)

Airbus A350-900 Lufthansa Seat Map

Lufthansa 787 Seating Plan

Lufthansa A340 Seat Map

Lufthansa Airbus A330-300 Seat Map

Lufthansa seat selection, lufthansa: general information.

The Lufthansa airline has 263 planes flying to over 200 destinations, operating in about 78 countries. The airline is one of the most popular in the world, amassing huge funds since its establishment in 2000. It often uses a four-cabin plane consisting of Economy, Economy Premium, Business, and First cabins. The Lufthansa seat selection is straightforward, thanks to charts and maps accessible to passengers traveling long and short distances.

The airline’s entertainment tools ensure smooth and pleasurable travel. Passengers can see their favorite movies, enjoy TV shows, and listen to their favorite songs. They can read countless newspapers, magazines, and journals in different languages. All Lufthansa airplanes come with internet access sponsored by Flynet for passengers to stream and browse while on a flight.

You can travel with your pet the next time you fly since the Lufthansa seat assignment has a friendly pet carrier that you can easily fit under the seat opposite you. Pets will only be moved to the cargo area if they are too large to fit under it.

Lufthansa Airlines is deliberate in its quest to make things easy for its passengers. Features like late-night check-in, rebooking in case of emergency, and lounge services are all available to ensure you have a stress-free time before your flight.

Lufthansa First Class seats

The First Class Lufthansa seating comprises eight seats in a 1-2-1 configuration. They have no noticeable disadvantages, even though they aren’t ensuite. With a 180-degree recline, these seats can become flatbeds. Passengers enjoy AC power outlets for charging devices and on-demand TV.

Securing a seat in the First Class costs more than other cabins. As the Lufthansa seating chart shows, all First Class seats have enough legroom for passengers to be more comfortable. Passengers will be given a menu from which they may choose their favorite meals.

Lufthansa Business Class seats

The business Lufthansa seats are arranged in a 2-2-2 configuration. Those in this cabin are comfortable and suited for long-haul journeys.

The bad seats in this cabin are those close to the lavatory and galley. However, the structure of the Business cabin ensures you have a pleasurable trip. It is designed with an armrest and extra space. Also, passengers will enjoy meals on the flight, including alcohol, beverages, etc.

Like the First Class cabin of the Lufthansa airlines seat selection, Business cabin ones are comfortable and have in-flight amenities like AC power and on-demand TV. Lufthansa structured this cabin in their aircraft to ensure they are convenient for long-haul flights.

Lufthansa Premium Economy Seat

The Lufthansa Premium Economy seat does not have as much space as the Business Class cabin. However, they are recliner ones and come with AC power and on-demand TVs like the Business and First Class.

Premium Economy seats on Lufthansa are similar to the Economy Class. If you are looking for the best seats in the Premium Economy class, check for those with floor storage during landing and takeoff, seat width, proximity to the galley and lavatory, and window seats. Some Premium Economy seats come with extra legroom, which may be due to the exit in front of them.

Economy seats

The Economy cabin is behind the Premium Economy seats of Lufthansa. This cabin is a budget-friendly alternative to other cabins. Though it costs less to board this cabin, the cabin does not offer as much comfort as the classes.

Passengers in the Economy cabin do not have extra legroom, which other cabins enjoy due to the structure of the seats. However, some of them have extra leg space due to the exit or passage in front of them. Also, complimentary meal services are available to travelers on long-haul travels to ensure they have a pleasurable flight.

Avoid seats close to the galley and lavatory when booking the Lufthansa Airlines Economy class. These seats tend to be crowded with passengers seeking to use the restroom.

Sitzen besser planen – mit den neuen Sitzplänen der Lufthansa Group Airlines

Alle Sitzdetails schon vor dem Flug einsehen – die neuen Seatmaps sind live und bieten Reisenden die Möglichkeit, schon während der Buchung oder des Online Check-ins den perfekten Sitzplatz zu finden.

Auf den Webseiten von Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines, Lufthansa und SWISS können Reisende jetzt die Sitzplätze für alle Flugzeugtypen und Versionen einsehen. Wie zum Beispiel für Lufthansa Allegris, dem neuen Reiseerlebnis auf der Langstrecke. Reisende können beim Buchen die Positionen, Details und die persönlichen Extras der neu konzipierten Reiseklassen einsehen.

Detailreiche Einblicke – der Sitzplan zeigt die tatsächliche, physische Kabinenaufteilung – mit detaillierten Illustrationen der Sitze. Plätze mit besonderen Merkmalen wie zum Beispiel Fensterplätze, Plätze ohne Fenster und nicht verstellbare Sitze sind in den Seatmaps entsprechend hervorgehoben.

Mehr Informationen auf einen Blick . Für jeden einzelnen Sitzplatz werden zusätzliche Inhalte in Form von Texten und Bildern bereitgestellt. Beim Klick auf einen Sitzplatz oder auf die neu eingeführte Sitzplatztyp-Übersicht öffnet sich eine separate Ansicht mit weiteren Informationen.

Verbesserter Ablauf . Die neuen Sitzpläne sind im Check-in-Prozess für Interkontinentalflüge verfügbar – die Einführung für Kontinentalflüge folgt in Kürze.

Diese Erweiterung ermöglicht Reisenden einen vereinfachten und verbesserten Online Check-in.

In der Vergangenheit nutzten vor allem Vielflieger häufig externe Plattformen, um an genauere Details über die Sitzplätze zu gelangen. Mit den neuen Sitzplänen wird dieses Problem gelöst und das Buchen von Geschäftsreisen in einem Unternehmen kann nun über nur einen einzigen Kanal stattfinden – das spart wertvolle Zeit und beugt fehlerhaften Informationen durch Drittanbieter vor.

Veröffentlicht am 08.05.2024

Meta Wants You to Use VR While Flying

Justin Dawes , Skift

May 14th, 2024 at 11:49 AM EDT

The Meta Quest virtual reality headset was designed for the ground, but a new update makes them useable while flying. Now, the company is pushing them as an in-flight entertainment option.

Justin Dawes

Meta announced “Travel Mode” on Monday for versions 2 and 3 of its Quest virtual reality headsets, an update that allows them to be used while flying.

That means travelers can now use those headsets to watch movies, play games, and answer emails while on an airplane

“Using Quest on a plane previously wasn’t possible, since its tracking technology was designed for on-the-ground use, meaning that virtual objects and windows would drift when on a moving vehicle,” Meta said in a statement to Skift. “But after we specially tuned the algorithms to account for a plane’s motion, you can now use Quest on a plane with a stable and consistent experience.”

In addition, Meta is partnering with Lufthsana to put Quest 3 headsets — containing the new Travel Mode features along with custom content — on airplanes for certain business class travelers. 

Mark Zuckerberg announced the tech update Monday on his Instagram account along with a promotional video, viewable below:

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mark Zuckerberg (@zuck)

For flights with complimentary Wi-Fi, Meta said the headset may detect the network and prompt the user to join. It would then automatically launch the browser for access to the airline’s selection of movies and TV shows. Or, the user can watch the movies already downloaded to their Quest library.

Depending on the airline, the headset may automatically detect when on an airplane and prompt the user to activate Travel Mode. 

Travel Mode is optimized only for planes right now, but the company plans to later add support for other modes of transportation, like trains.

Lufthansa Partnership 

Beginning this summer, Lufthansa is making Quest 3 headsets and specialized content available for travelers flying in the new Allegris Business Class Suite.

Meta said that this is the first airline offering this device on commercial flights. 

Lufthansa Group is investing $2.7 billion (€2.5 billion) to create the Allegris suites for long-haul flights. The newly outfitted planes have private flying rooms with large seats, personal wardrobes, dining tables, and more. The first commercial flight of a plane with the suite was on May 1 .

The custom content will be accessible only through the provided Quest 3 headsets. And the content will be pre-loaded into the headsets, ensuring access even when there is no Wi-Fi connection.

Some of the custom content for Lufthansa:

• Episodes from travel podcasters with 360-degree videos for select content
• Select movies and TV shows
• Virtual sightseeing previews of the travel destination from a bird’s-eye view
• Games including Connect Four and Chess
• Meditation exercises

The company MSM.digital is compiling the content and providing device setup, distribution, management, and technical support.

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Tags: airlines , business travel , lufthansa , meta , quest , the prompt , virtual reality

Photo credit: Pictured: The view through a Meta Quest VR headset in Travel Mode. Meta

What is the difference between first-class and business-class cabins?

Like traveller’s cheques, departure cards and baggage without wheels, first-class air travel could be on its way out.

This week, the world’s second-best airline Qatar Airways announced it was scrapping its fanciest cabin seat – and it’s not the first to pull the plug on first-class flights of fancy.

Air New Zealand, South African Airways, Turkish Airlines, Malaysian Airlines and Latam have also called time on first-class cabins, with American Airlines to follow suit on international flights next year.

Qatar Airways chief executive Akbar Al Baker believes that investment in the most luxurious seats doesn’t justify the returns, claiming the “future lies in business class”.

So, what is the difference between first-class and business-class seats, and is the former a gimmick or a once-in-a-lifetime splurge worth making?

Here, The National looks at the difference between first-class and business-class seats at five of the world's biggest airlines.

Emirates promises ultimate luxury in the skies and the airline’s first-class service has won its share of awards over the years.

Available on both its A380 and Boeing 777 aircraft, the first-class service is described as being “as close to it comes to your own private jet”, with individual suites, large flat-screen TVs and a menu that includes lobster and caviar.

Food is served on Royal Doulton fine bone china and the A380 even offers fliers a smart shower spa and Exclusive Collection Bvlgari amenity kits.

In business class, passengers can stretch out on spacious lie-flat seats complete with a personal minibar and a widescreen TV, although they miss out on the privacy of sliding doors.

The caviar is replaced by a selection of light bites, though passengers can expect the same crockery and shower kit.

Certain jets even offer an onboard business-class lounge where guests can dig into canapes and make new friends around the bar at 40,000 feet.

Etihad Airways

Flying to London? With Etihad, travellers can kick back in a private three-room suite, featuring a bedroom, living room and en suite shower room, under the care of a private butler.

The Residence cabin will be available to book in the summer when the airline's four A380s from Abu Dhabi to the UK capital are back in the sky.

As well as breakfast in bed and a full turndown service, fliers can also watch multiple widescreen TVs and savour gourmet cuisine on designer tableware.

Back in “regular” first class, passengers can expect a private suite, an a la carte menu, a boutique drinks list and a fully flat bed.

In the business cabin, beds also recline and meals are served a la carte.

The newly launched Constellation Collection in business class, meanwhile, features cabins designed in collaboration with Giorgio Armani, and come with a memory foam mattress and luxurious Armani bedding.

Singapore Airlines

The Suite Class cabins on Singapore Airlines are designed by French luxury yacht designer Jean-Jacques Coste, and have single and double en suite rooms akin to a luxury hotel.

In first class, the extravagance continues with extra-wide leather seats with curved partitions for privacy, as well as a 24-inch HD TV and a Book the Cook service, offering a selection of a la carte dishes including lobster, scallops and roast duck.

In business class, seats are unsurprisingly smaller, though seats on international flights can recline into a flat bed crafted from soft leather. Selected routes also offer Book the Cook with paired drinks.

British Airways

Upgrading to first class on British Airways gives guests access to a private suite complete with a lie-flat seat with a memory foam mattress topper and 400 thread count sheets.

First-class British Airways passengers can also choose from an a la carte menu featuring Herefordshire beef and pan-fried stone bass, paired with a selection of drinks.

In business class, passengers will have to forgo the suite, though the blow is softened by a fully flat bed and global cuisine, plus BA’s signature afternoon tea on certain routes.

The airline's newly revamped Club World Suites, meanwhile, offer a spacious 198cm fully flat bed with a door for extra privacy.

From next year, passengers flying with Lufthansa will be able to choose the First Class Suite Plus cabin on the Airbus A350 as part of Lufthansa Allegris, the airline’s new long-haul project.

The service will offer double suites in both first and business-class cabins, with a few important differences. Where the first-class option will feature ceiling-high walls and entirely closable doors, the business-class cabin will offer chest-high walls and sliding doors for privacy.

Both options will also feature fully reclining beds with an inbuilt heating and cooling system with widescreen TVs and noise-cancelling headphones.