Lufthansa to launch premium economy seats on S'pore-Frankfurt route in April

SINGAPORE - Germany-based carrier Lufthansa has introduced its new premium economy product, which will be available on all its daily Singapore-Frankfurt flights by April 23.

According to Lufthansa's regional director, Christian Altmann, the premium economy product will further strengthen the carrier's position in the competitive international segment. "It complements the upgrade initiatives that Lufthansa plans to make in all travel classes this year," he added.

In introducing the premium economy seat, Lufthansa joins other carriers such as Cathay Pacific and Qantas which have already done so, as airlines seek to capitalise on the segment of travellers willing to spend a little more for added comfort.

Singapore Airlines (SIA) too plans to introduce premium economy from August, starting with select flights between Singapore and Sydney before tagging on other medium and long- haul routes.

With 50 per cent more room than regular economy, Lufthansa's premium economy seat offers a 38-inch seat pitch, a wider TV monitor of 11-12 inches, a seat width of 18-19 inches, a power socket as well as additional storage space.

Meanwhile, passengers will be allowed to check in two bags of up to 23 kg each - double the economy class allowance - and will be able to use the Lufthansa Business Lounges for a 25 euro (S$37) fee.

In contrast, the economy seat has a pitch of 31 inches and seat width of 17-18 inches.

Annette Mann, director (launch management of premium economy), said: "Passengers can now enjoy both extra comfort and quality service onboard at an affordable price - which is great for cost-conscious business travellers and leisure travellers who want more comfort onboard."

Germany's flag carrier is investing a total of 100 million euros in rolling out its premium economy product, which will be implemented on about 100 of its long-haul aircraft by August, including models such as the Airbus A380 and A330. Since last November, it has already equipped 30 of its planes with premium economy seats.

Lufthansa offers a daily non-stop service between Frankfurt and Singapore using Airbus A380-800 aircraft, with onward connections to its network of over 160 destinations.

Special launch fares for its premium economy product are available till March 20, with fares starting at S$1,999 from Singapore to destinations in Europe.

This article was first published on March 18, 2015.
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