Lufthansa Airlines is bracing for extended delays in receiving its initial Boeing B777-9 aircraft, with CEO Jens Ritter stating that the first delivery may not materialize until 2026, a year later than previously anticipated.
Ritter conveyed this information to reporters during a recent Lufthansa event on 02 May 2024, highlighting a shift in the airline’s expectations regarding the delivery timeline. Originally slated for the summer timetable of 2025, the arrival of the first B777-9 is now projected to be deferred to at least 2026.
Despite Lufthansa’s firm order for 27 B777-9s and being among the launch customers for the B777X family, the airline is grappling with ongoing delays, echoing broader industry concerns over Boeing’s delivery schedules.
Boeing, however, reiterated its commitment to delivering the initial B777-9s in 2025, followed by the B777-8F in 2027, subject to approval from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). However, challenges persist in obtaining the crucial Type Inspection Authorization (TIA), a pivotal step in the FAA’s certification process. Despite Boeing’s efforts to address regulatory queries and technical requirements, unresolved issues continue to hinder progress.
Ritter’s remarks underscore a growing sense of uncertainty surrounding Boeing’s timelines and regulatory approvals. While Boeing remains optimistic about meeting its targets, ongoing tensions between the manufacturer and regulatory authorities cast doubts on the feasibility of the proposed delivery schedule. Lufthansa’s proactive response to the delays includes dispatching a significant delegation to Boeing to seek clarification and assess the situation further. This move reflects the airline’s commitment to navigating the complexities of fleet planning amid evolving delivery schedules and regulatory challenges.
The potential delay in receiving the B777-9 aircraft poses logistical and strategic implications for Lufthansa, necessitating adjustments to its widebody fleet planning. With plans already in motion to retire several aircraft types, including Airbus A340s and Boeing B747s, Lufthansa faces the imperative to recalibrate its operational strategies to ensure continued efficiency and reliability.
Despite setbacks in the B777-9 delivery schedule, Lufthansa remains focused on expanding its modern fleet, with the acquisition of additional Boeing B787 and Airbus A350 aircraft. However, delays in these deliveries, partly attributed to certification issues, may impact the airline’s revenue projections and operational efficiency.
In the interim, Lufthansa is implementing measures to enhance schedule reliability, including grounding select aircraft for backup purposes. In addition, plans to reactivate the remaining Airbus A380s underscore the airline’s commitment to optimizing its fleet operations while adapting to fluctuating demand dynamics.