Lufthansa is in the midst of a significant transformation, introducing new “Allegris” cabins and a comprehensive service overhaul dubbed the FOX (Future Onboard Experience) concept. While the new hardware receives much of the attention, the airline has simultaneously updated its “soft product”—the food, drinks, and amenities—across all cabins.
A recent review of Lufthansa’s First Class service on an Airbus A340-600 from Frankfurt to New York reveals that while the changes are evolutionary rather than revolutionary, they significantly enhance the passenger experience through thoughtful details and improved presentation.
The Shift in Expectations
Historically, Lufthansa’s First Class has been viewed as solid but unremarkable—competent, yet lacking the wow factor of top-tier competitors. Skepticism was high regarding the FOX initiative, particularly given the airline’s ambitious goal to become Europe’s premier carrier. Critics argued that the initial announcements suggested only minor tweaks.
However, the reality on board suggests a different narrative. The updates are not about reinventing the wheel but rather refining existing elements to create a more seamless, deliberate, and human-centric service flow. The result is an experience that feels more polished and attentive, bridging the gap between standard luxury and exceptional hospitality.
Amenities: Comfort Meets Personalization
The amenity kit and comfort items have seen subtle but welcome updates:
- Sleep Comfort: In addition to the standard pillow and day blanket, passengers now receive a small memory foam pillow, adding an extra layer of comfort for long-haul flights. The bed setup remains unchanged, preserving the high-quality bedding Lufthansa is known for.
- Pajamas: New pajamas, introduced to celebrate Lufthansa’s 100th anniversary, replace the previous Van Laack brand. They are noted for their high quality and comfort, featuring subtle branding.
- Amenity Kit: The kit itself is a sturdy, reusable box celebrating the airline’s centenary. Inside, passengers find a plush Lufthansa-branded eye mask, a significant upgrade from traditional options.
- Skincare Selection: A new interactive element allows passengers to choose from a selection of skincare products by German brand BABOR. While the concept aims for personalization, the process can be slightly awkward, as flight attendants must manage inventory for multiple samples. Despite this, the addition offers a customizable touch rarely seen in this cabin class.
- Final Touches: Before landing, crew members present each First Class passenger with a box of chocolates and a handwritten thank-you card. This gesture, similar to practices by Cathay Pacific, adds a personal and appreciative end to the journey.
Dining: Presentation and Abundance
The most noticeable improvements lie in the dining experience, where presentation and variety have been elevated:
- Visual Appeal: Dish presentation has been dramatically improved. Garnishes are more intricate, and plates resemble those found in high-end restaurants. For example, soup is served with solid ingredients first, with the broth poured tableside for dramatic effect.
- Course Structure:
- The single amuse-bouche has been replaced by a trilogy, offering more variety from the start.
- The caviar service now includes blinis and a mother-of-pearl spoon, adding a touch of classic luxury.
- Appetizers remain a trio, but the overall quantity of food has increased significantly, often requiring passengers to share or save portions.
- Flexibility: The pre-landing meal has been updated to an “anytime selection” model. Passengers can choose from cold specialties, warm specialties, light bites, and desserts at their convenience, offering greater flexibility than the previous rigid menu.
- Dessert & Pralines: Dessert options have expanded to a trio, and a dedicated praline menu has been introduced. This small detail helps passengers identify their choices in low-light cabin conditions, showcasing the airline’s attention to minor but impactful details.
Beverages: A Curated Selection
The drink program has also been refined, with a focus on premium brands and signature cocktails:
- Champagne: The standard brut is now 2018 Veuve Clicquot La Grande Dame, with a special reserve option such as 2015 Bollinger La Grande Année available on certain flights.
- Wine List: The selection remains decent, with a strong focus on regional wines, though it does not reach the exceptional levels of some competitors.
- Signature Cocktails: Lufthansa is highlighting signature drinks, such as the Negroni. While the execution may not always match the glossy marketing images, the effort to offer crafted cocktails adds to the onboard ambiance.
Conclusion: Thoughtful Evolution
Lufthansa’s First Class soft product overhaul is a masterclass in incremental improvement. Rather than making sweeping, risky changes, the airline has focused on refining existing strengths: better presentation, more personalized amenities, and more thoughtful service interactions.
While the hard product (the seat and cabin) remains the foundation, these soft touches create a more cohesive and enjoyable experience. Lufthansa has successfully added a “human element” to its service, making it feel less transactional and more hospitable. It may not be the most revolutionary change in aviation history, but it is undoubtedly one of the most well-executed recent updates in the industry.
