Economic downturn in the U.S. impacts Lufthansa's first-class demand: Insight into how the American situation influences Lufthansa's business operations
Why it matters: Lufthansa anticipates a decrease in business with US flights during the third quarter, which could have financial repercussions for the airline and potential consequences for customers.
- The North Atlantic business is the primary revenue source for passenger airlines.
- Lufthansa CEO Carsten Spohr confirms reduced demand, particularly from Germany.
- Economy-class travelers are primarily affected by this shift.
Lufthansa shifting focus to the US
Spohr's remarks: In the upcoming months, Lufthansa expects weaker business with US flights.
- Lufthansa plans to move resources from Europe to the US to capitalize on persistent demand.
- "Each trip can be sold as a round trip from the US or from Europe," explains Spohr. "We're now boosting the share of seats headed to the US."
- Higher pricing is also achievable in the US market.
Los Angeles and its repercussions: Spohr also references the situation in Los Angeles as a factor. For several days, protests have been ongoing there, resulting in disagreements between the California government and US President Donald Trump, who has activated the National Guard against the wishes of local politicians.
- "Of course, that has an impact," says Spohr.
- Although only one percent of the city's territory is impacted, and it's an area typically avoided by tourists, some residual concerns linger in people's minds, according to the Lufthansa CEO.
Unscathed Booking Classes
Background information: The North Atlantic business generates significant revenue for Lufthansa.
- Lufthansa makes 60 daily flights to America, with premium booking classes remaining stable.
- Business in premium booking classes remains strong, reports Spohr.
- "First Class, Business Class, and Premium Economy are virtually untouched. We're seeing a slight weakness in the lower booking classes, primarily from Germany."
- Spohr concludes that cost-conscious travelers are currently reacting to the situation in the US.
Enrichment Data:- Lufthansa's winter 2025/26 flight schedule includes operations from Munich to Los Angeles with A380 aircraft[3][5]. This expansion is part of a broader strategy by Lufthansa to bolster stability, punctuality, and reliability in its flight schedules[1][2].- Protests could potentially disrupt flights, alter travel demand, and necessitate operational adjustments by Lufthansa, given their impact on airport operations, travel restrictions, or the overall travel climate. However, Lufthansa's expanded services and focus on reliability suggest an effort to maintain robust operations despite external challenges.
- In response to anticipated weaker business with US flights, Lufthansa plans to redirect resources to the US market.
- Spohr notes that although some residual concerns remain, premium booking classes, such as First Class, Business Class, and Premium Economy, are virtually untouched, while there's a slight weakness in the lower booking classes, primarily from Germany.
