The reductions are primarily due to the discontinuation of its unprofitable CityLine service and the retirement of 27 aircraft. The airline noted that jet fuel prices have more than doubled and highlighted ongoing labor disputes with its staff as significant reasons for this decision.
The airline estimates that these cuts will lead to a savings of approximately 40,000 tonnes of jet fuel by October, accounting for around 1% of its available seat kilometers.
Lufthansa is streamlining its European network, withdrawing unprofitable routes from its Frankfurt and Munich hubs, while increasing services from Zurich, Brussels, and Vienna. The airline reassured passengers that they will still have access to its global route network and long-haul flights.
Additionally, Lufthansa plans to reduce its long-haul capacity later in the year, with six intercontinental aircraft scheduled for withdrawal. Two Boeing 747s will be taken out of service for the winter ahead of their planned retirement, and four Airbus A340-600 aircraft will be retired in October.
This decision comes as airlines grapple with heightened costs associated with fuel prices, coupled with concerns regarding supply issues related to the situation around the Strait of Hormuz.
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