A380 Retrofit: Lufthansa modernizes Business Class of its largest aircraft

Lufthansa has launched a major retrofit program for its Airbus A380 fleet, starting February 2026, with all eight aircraft receiving brand-new Business Class cabins featuring direct aisle access, wider seats, and modern connectivity. The first upgraded A380 (“Mike-Charly”) will return to service from Munich in April 2026.

Scope of Program
- All eight Airbus A380-800s in Lufthansa’s fleet will be retrofitted.
- Retrofit work is being carried out at Elbe Flugzeugwerke in Dresden.
- Part of Lufthansa’s largest fleet renewal in its history, also covering Boeing 747-8 and Airbus A350-900 aircraft.

Business Class Upgrades
- 68 new Thompson VantageXL seats per aircraft.
- Direct aisle access for every passenger (a major improvement over the angled layout).
- Seat width: 58 cm.
- Bed length: at least 2 meters.
- Bluetooth connectivity for personal devices.
- Flexible partitions for privacy.

Timeline
- Retrofit begins February 2026.
- First aircraft (“Mike-Charly”) expected back in service April 2026 from Munich.

Passenger Experience Benefits
- Comfort: Wider seats and full-flat beds improve long-haul rest.
- Privacy: Direct aisle access and partitions eliminate the “climb-over” issue.
- Technology: Bluetooth allows wireless headphone use, a modern touch for inflight entertainment.
- Consistency: Aligns Lufthansa’s A380 product with its newest A350 and 747-8 cabins.

Outlook
This retrofit signals Lufthansa’s commitment to premium passenger experience and fleet modernization. By mid-2026, travelers flying Lufthansa’s A380s from Munich will enjoy a state-of-the-art Business Class cabin that rivals leading global carriers.