Review of Lufthansa First Class

With a dual hub system in Frankfurt and Munich, Lufthansa’s flight network spans the globe with excellent European connectivity from these airports to cities near and far. Premium check-in areas and security lines for First Class mean there is rarely a line for passengers starting at its two main hubs. Those beginning journeys in other airports can use premium check-in lines and boarding lanes. 

Read more about Lufthansa services at Frankfurt Airport or Munich Airport on Lufthansa.com.

Its German hubs offer some of the finest First Class lounges in the world. Frankfurt Airport has a completely separate First Class Terminal for Lufthansa First Class travellers - who never have to walk through the main airport if they start their journey there. Aside from private security immigration lanes, luxury vehicles drive customers from their private oasis to the aircraft - once the rest of the passengers have boarded. In the private airport terminal, there is a restaurant with impressive international selections, a menu of water, wine and spirit labels from around the world, and private shower and soaking tub suites. The cigar lounge rounds out what is arguably the most stylish of starts to any flight.

Other travellers may use the in-terminal lounge at Frankfurt - where there are two First Class lounges - which is more convenient for connecting passengers. It offers the same food and beverage amenities but does not offer the private ground transfer unless the aircraft is leaving from a remote stand. These lounges are only available to Lufthansa First Class passengers or HON Circle members of the Miles & More program.

In Munich, there is a First Class lounge within the terminal that offers shower suites, substantial food and beverage menus, work areas and access to private immigration lanes. Luxury cars take travellers from the lounge to their aircraft if the flight is leaving from a remote stand.

Free Wi-Fi, private work stations and phone booths, international magazines and newspapers, and power outlets complete what to expect in these incredible, rarely crowded lounges.

A valet parking service is available for Lufthansa First Class passengers for rental or private cars at the First Class Terminal in Frankfurt an at the kerbside check-in at Terminal 2 in Munich.

When flying from or through other cities, First Class passengers can use the Lufthansa Senator lounge network or partner lounges, many of which belong to other Star Alliance members. And if a Star Alliance partner has a First Class lounge - Swiss International in Zurich or All Nippon Airways in Tokyo for instance, Lufthansa First Class passengers can use it.

At Fankfurt Airport, Lufthansa assigns a personal assistant to take care of travel formalities from the moment a departing passenger arrives at the First Class Terminal or one of the First Class lounges. Similarly, a personal assistant is also available at many airports outside Europe to assist departing First Class passengers by escorting them through security and passport control, to the lounge or straight to the departure gate.

At selected airports within the Lufthansa network, the airline offers an arrival service for First Class passengers. A personal assistant may be waiting for you at the arrival gate to assist with immigration formalities as well as locating the correct belt in the baggage reclaim area. Similarly, a personal assistant may be assigned to assist transit passengers connecting to a flight in Lufthansa First Class from an outstation. This exclusive service is not offered in Frankfurt or Munich. Transit passengers arriving at these airports in Lufthansa First Class are however welcome to access the Lufthansa First Class lounges, including the First Class Terminal if continuing their journey in Lufthansa Business Class to a final destination.

More information about the exclusive Lufthansa First Class Terminal, Lufthansa First Class lounges and the Welcome Lounge in Frankfurt, which is also available to arriving First Class passengers, is available on lufthansa.com.

Lufthansa's First Class cabin was previously only offered on the Boeing 747-8i fleet and a small sub-fleet of Airbus A340-600s. However, the next-generation Allegris cabins will debut in the summer of 2023 on ten newly delivered Airbus A350-900s. The same cabin upgrades will also feature on the new Boeing 787-9s and Boeing 777-9s, the latter of which are due to arrive during 2025, while the ageing 747-8s will undergo a retrofit in time.

The existing Boeing 747-8i features eight First Class seats across three rows. The first two rows are in a 1-1 configuration, while the third row offers seats in a 1-2-1 setup. Those travelling together may opt for the centre seats in the third row. The two seats on the first row are, however, also close enough for conversation due to the unique design of the front cabin of the Boeing 747-8. First Class Class on the A340-600 also features eight seats in a more traditional 1-2-1 configuration. The Lufthansa First Class seats are identical on both aircraft types.

The existing Lufthansa First Class cabin features a clean, open and elegant design showcasing the airline's sleek branding. The open design contrasts with the airline's new Allegris product of fully-enclosed private suites in First Class. Many passengers enjoy the spacious feel of the Lufthansa First Class cabin, even though privacy is somewhat limited. Passengers can store carry-on bags in special compartments near their seats or the overhead compartments. The Boeing 747-8 also features private lockers for garments or larger hand baggage at the back of the First Class cabin.

Fully flat beds are standard, with seats with uber-plush cushioning and ottomans moving closer to the seat for more leisurely relaxation. There are various seating positions to lounge, nap, work or sleep, and storage options are plentiful, whether on the side of the seat, underneath the ottoman or in well-designed nooks. On many flights, a fresh rose is placed at each seat, one of the many signature touches that make the experience more of a fine restaurant or luxury hotel than an aircraft.

Tray tables are immense and fold out towards the seat. They can be pushed forward and backwards to allow easier aisle access. Each seat comes with a plush duvet, mattress pad and various pillows. These are wrapped, and when passengers are ready to sleep, flight attendants meticulously make the bed with turndown-service precision. It is just another of those impressive Lufthansa touches. Privacy shields rise from the side of the seat, and the carpeting in First Class aisles has extra padding to absorb the shock as flight attendants or passengers walk through the cabin and reduce noise. Lastly, sturdier cabin dividers that block light and noise protect the First Class cabin from Business Class - assuring First Class of an elite and quiet inflight experience.

The all-new Allegris First Class cabins allows passengers to enjoy a significant product upgrade with the luxurious First Class Suite. A fully-enclosed Suite with high, almost-ceiling-height walls provides passengers increased privacy with near-metre-wide seating that converts into a large comfortable bed. The far end of the Suite features a sizeable ottoman offering ample room for companion dining. A large-high-quality in-flight entertainment screen spans the width of the Suite and comes complete with wireless Bluetooth and noise-cancelling headphones. Other valuable features include a personal wardrobe, baggage storage options and wireless charging.   

The flight search on BusinessClass.com includes images, videos and seat maps for most airlines and aircraft Search results also include details such as seat pitch, width and recline. This way you can see the seat and cabin configuration of the flight in which you are interested, before making your choice.

The onboard dining experience is a sight to behold as the airline presents many courses in the aisle so passengers can view and select what they like. Refined touches make the experience like a fine-dining restaurant with crisp white table linens, stylish serviette rings, high-end cutlery, personal salt and pepper mills, bowls of olive oil, and elegant glass carafes of three water types available at the First Class Bar.

An amuse-bouche kicks off the experience, followed by the caviar cart with all the accoutrements - presented with a mother-of-pearl spoon. The plating of this service is a work of art. Next comes a selection of appetisers, including small salads, cured meat plates, soups and other tasty starters. Passengers can choose one or all three if they wish. They are presented on a trolley so that people can see what suits them best despite detailed descriptions in the full-sized menus offered to passengers. Warm bread rolls, including tasty German pretzel rolls, are presented in a basket along with olive oil and dishes of salted butter with the words First Class stamped on them.

The main course is plated in the galley and generally consists of four options: meat, poultry, seafood and vegetarian. There is usually a destination-specific choice. Sadly, the main course is often the weakest element of the otherwise excellent dining experience in Lufthansa First Class. During the winter holidays, German specialities often grace the menu, too. Dessert continues with sweet treats, a cheese trolley with a global selection carved at each seat with fruit, and cordials, coffee or tea. A box of fine chocolates is passed through the cabin so passengers can enjoy a post-supper praline.

On day flights, the service lasts a bit longer than on night flights, but flight attendants are always mindful of one's desire to eat quickly and rest or enjoy the service. Everything seems personalised and respectful and can be delivered whenever one prefers.

Pre-arrival meals come in multiple courses and include a selection of dishes presented on a trolley. For example, a fruit platter, cold meats and cheeses, yoghurt, cereals and other dishes at breakfast get passengers ready for the day ahead. Even more impressive are eggs prepared to order in the galley - scrambled with chives is a regular favourite.

Later in the day, salads made to order, soup, sandwiches and other sweet or savoury dishes are a delicious finale to a lovely flight. Midflight snacks, including soups or burgers, are available on request.

From June onwards, every passenger will receive a bespoke box of Lindt chocolates as an exclusive parting gift.

Lufthansa has a useful functionality on its website to let you check the menu for your flight in Lufthansa First Class. Menu cards are published about two months before departure.

Insider tip: cabin crew may be able to serve a special treat for breakfast in the form of creamy scrambled eggs with caviar - subject to the availability of caviar after the main meal service. Make sure to let the cabin crew know at the earliest opportunity if you wish to make this off-menu request.

More information about Lufthansa First Class dining.

As guests board the aircraft, they are welcomed by the flight attendant and offered a beverage of their choice. Champagne is usually laid out in the centre of the cabin among other items. The label is varied every few months and includes premium choices like Laurent-Perrier Grand Siècle or Cuvée Louise, Champagne Pommery, and the welcome drink is always served with a bowl of macadamia nuts. Warm towels on a plate with rose petals are a nice touch, and this will be the first of many delivered on the flight. The rose scent is another Lufthansa signature.

Printed menus outline what is available throughout the flight including Champagne, four white wines, a rosé, four red wines and a dessert wine. There is a long list of cocktails and mocktails using the impressive spirits, liqueurs and aperitifs available. In addition, there is an international selection of beers plus soft drinks, water and juices. 

Insider tip: Lufthansa First Class cabin crew are oenophiles and are happy to arrange informal wine tasting sessions - showcasing the excellent selection of wines available.

Following the main meal, Dallmayr premium selection coffee and Eilles Tea are served - with the praline choclates as the grand finale. 

The flight search on BusinessClass.com includes information on which Champagne is served in Business Class and First Class on many airlines. We do our best to keep track of any changes, but feel free to let us know if there is something we missed. 

Flight attendants receive special training before they are allowed to host in Lufthansa First Class, and this is notable in their attentive service - that is neither overbearing nor forgetful. They seem to perfectly gauge each passenger to determine the right amount of interaction they like. While the Purser is rarely working in First Class, he or she will make a point of greeting each First Class passenger and thank them for flying Lufthansa.

While nothing is ever perfect, Lufthansa First Class service comes pretty close. Expect name recognition, German formality with a bit of conversation on the side, and a focus on service delivery from takeoff to touchdown.

Bose noise-cancelling headphones are standard, and these are hard-wired into the seat. They cannot be removed for cleaning, and passengers must wrap a protective cover around the ear piece. Luckily, large entertainment screens offer everything from Hollywood and Bollywood movies to short features including comedies and documentaries. Fans of television series can binge-watch their favourite shows for all the family, catch up with the latest news and sports highlights or listen to an audiobook or podcast.

There is both touch screen and remote-control capability to satisfy any preference or seating position for easy access. Expect a wide variety of audio programming including international selections from around the world. The moving map display is a favourite of frequent fliers that like to follow their journey. 

Detailed information about inflight entertainment and the current programme is available on lufthansa.com.

Wi-Fi is available aboard the majority of the airline’s aircraft with pricing based on the speed needed. The cheapest option is best for texting while faster speeds are good for email or downloading files. Data caps mean that those with a heavy workload will wish to buy the most expensive plan. Occasionally, free vouchers are available for limited data promotions. As an alternative, passengers can also redeem Miles & More Miles to use onboard Internet.

Updated pricing and more information about Wi-Fi on Lufthansa.

More information about entertainment in Lufthansa First Class.

The flight search on BusinessClass.com includes information on inflight entertainment and Wi-Fi.

Before departure, guests enjoy wrapped sets of Van Laack pajamas presented in a bag that can also be used for storing your shoes. While the design is high-end, the material is a mix of 60% cotton and 40% polyester - which may not be to everyone's liking. There is also a set of wonderfully thick slippers to wear around the cabin and a high-end amenity kit.

For many years, Lufthansa First Class had collector’s edition, hard-shell Rimowa kits that were exceptionally popular with fliers. These days, the airline tends to rotate the style of kit on offer such as Sinn, Porsche Design and Jil Sander. Included in the kits are eye shades, socks, lip balm, and hair brush among other top-branded items from Swiss luxury spa brand  La Prairie. Lavatories, which are sizeable - and offer a cushioned bench for changing clothes - stock mouthwash, razors and dental kits, as well as full-size La Prairie amenities.

During holiday periods, Lufthansa offers specially themed amenity kits and sometimes presents First Class fliers with airline-branded gifts. In the past, these have included nutcrackers and ornaments. During Oktoberfest, passengers can expect themed promotions including ground staff wearing authentic costumes and inflight menu specialties.

Lufthansa only offers First Class on selected long-haul routes, and passengers connecting to or from short or medium-haul flights will enjoy the typical Business Class service. Nevertheless, cabin crew seem to know which passengers are connecting from or to Lufthansa First Class, and may ever so discreetly acknowledge this during the connecting flight.

Intra-European flights are operated with narrow body planes and economy class-style seats with the centre seat blocked off. Even on shorter flights, Lufthansa gets high marks for its inflight service and facilities - even though the seats are a far cry from flat beds. 

Even short flights enjoy a range of beverages and meals appropriate to the time of day. On medium-haul flights - even when using a narrow body plane - a printed menu set out what the dining options are. 

Lufthansa offers an open bar, including choices of red or white wine, sparkling wine or beer, and a decent cocktail selection. Juices, soft drinks and still or sparkling water complete the choice. Service is delivered by aisle carts, but it is attentive and friendly.

Details about the Lufhansa Business Class experience on short and medium-haul routes.

Read our BusinessClass.com guide to Lufthansa Business Class.

Lufthansa places a strong focus on being environmentally responsible. It offers a carbon neutral option where travellers can offset the cost of their flight by paying a small fee. The airline is also investing in more fuel-efficient aircraft and operational measures on the ground and in the air.

Recycling programs in the lounges and onboard its flights continue the same theme. Catering products use sustainable materials with a focus on reducing waste. Lufthansa is also using one of its planes to help collect environmental data for climate research.

The flight search on BusinessClass.com includes information on CO2 emissions for each flight. Our quality algorithms also give a higher score to flights operated by the most modern and environmentally friendly aircraft.