FRANKFURT (dpa-AFX) - Amidst a turbulent period marked by a series of strikes, Lufthansa aims to win over passengers with a new long-haul service overhaul. Under the 'FOX' concept - short for 'Future Onboard Experience' - the company announced in Frankfurt that it has redesigned all service elements across all cabin classes. This represents one of the largest investments in the onboard customer experience in the airline's history. Jens Ritter, CEO of Lufthansa Airlines, stated that more than 70 million euros are being invested this year in service enhancements across all classes.

What the new concept promises

In Business Class, new menus will be introduced, and customers will be able to order their second long-haul meal whenever they choose. In Premium Economy, the beverage selection is being expanded, with more frequent drink services. In Economy Class, Lufthansa is providing a kit including a sleep mask and earplugs. The beverage selection is being significantly broadened, and on flights exceeding ten hours, passengers will now have a choice of three hot main courses instead of two. Additionally, new tableware is being introduced across all classes.

Lufthansa is currently navigating stormy waters: following the conflict in Iran, kerosene prices have more than doubled, and experts are warning of capacity bottlenecks this summer. Furthermore, strikes by pilots and flight attendants escalated in April - coinciding, of all times, with Lufthansa's centenary. The group responded firmly, prematurely terminating operations of its regional subsidiary Cityline. A resolution to the collective bargaining disputes with pilots and cabin crew remains outstanding.

Lufthansa also recently introduced changes for short- and medium-haul flights - albeit in the opposite direction: the previously free allowance for a small cabin suitcase has been scrapped. A new 'Economy Basic' entry-level fare is to be introduced across all group airlines, which includes only a small personal item such as a laptop bag or backpack. With this 'Light' offering, Lufthansa is aligning its service level with that of Air France, as well as low-cost carriers like Ryanair and Easyjet./als/DP/nas