Lufthansa has officially announced the retirement of its remaining Airbus A340-600 aircraft, with the final flight scheduled for October 25, 2026. This decision comes as the airline continues to modernize its fleet and phase out older models in favor of more efficient twin-engine jets. The last flight will mark the end of an era for the airline, which has utilized this aircraft type extensively on long-haul routes.
According to data from Cirium, an aviation analytics firm, Lufthansa will operate a total of 1,669 flights using the Airbus A340-600 in 2026. All of these flights will either depart from or arrive at its main hub, Frankfurt Airport (FRA). The majority of these operations will focus on transatlantic routes, connecting Frankfurt with major cities in the United States.
Current Fleet Status and Retirement Plans
Lufthansa currently has 13 Airbus A340-600 aircraft in its fleet, but only four are actively flying at this time. The remaining nine are already in storage. The average age of these jets is approximately 19.6 years, which is considerably older than the airline’s overall fleet average of 14.9 years. The carrier’s decision to retire the A340-600 aligns with its strategy to transition to modern aircraft, as it seeks to enhance operational efficiency and reduce emissions.
The initial plan was to retire the A340-600 by October 2025, but delays in the delivery of newer aircraft, such as the Boeing 787, have extended its service life. Lufthansa’s last major maintenance check for the A340-600 took place in April 2023, indicating that the airline has been extending the aircraft’s operational period despite its aging status.
Final Operations and Passenger Experience
Throughout October 2026, Lufthansa has scheduled 145 flights with the A340-600. These will include daily services from Frankfurt to notable destinations such as New York John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), Riyadh, and Washington D.C. (IAD). The last flight is set to operate from Riyadh to Frankfurt on the retirement date, concluding the aircraft’s service in the Lufthansa fleet.
Onboard, the Airbus A340-600 is designed to accommodate 281 passengers across various classes. The configuration includes eight first-class suites, 56 business class flatbeds, 28 premium economy recliners, and 189 economy seats. Notably, the first-class section provides every passenger with direct aisle access, enhancing the travel experience.
As Lufthansa moves forward, it will continue to replace older aircraft to meet the evolving demands of air travel, while the A340-600 will be remembered for its role in the airline’s long-haul operations. This transition signals a significant shift in the airline’s strategy, prioritizing fuel efficiency and sustainability as it embraces the future of aviation.
