Discover Airlines to Upgrade A330 Fleet with New Airbus A330-300s or A350s
Discover Airlines, a leisure carrier within the Lufthansa Group, has unveiled plans to phase out its three Airbus A330-200s by 2026 and replace them with newer, more efficient aircraft models. This strategic update is part of a broader effort to enhance the airline’s competitive stance against industry rivals like Condor and to adapt to changing market demands post-pandemic.
The airline’s fleet renewal strategy includes the potential addition of Airbus A330-300s or A350-900s to replace the retiring A330-200s. This move signifies a significant shift in Discover Airlines’ fleet composition, aimed at boosting operational efficiency and passenger comfort. The decision on which aircraft model will replace the A330-200s will be influenced by ongoing evaluations of their performance metrics and suitability for Discover Airlines’ route structure.
In addition to the widebody updates, Discover Airlines is set to expand its narrowbody fleet with the introduction of new Airbus A320s. This expansion is part of a planned growth trajectory that will see the airline’s total fleet increase from 27 to 33 aircraft by 2027. The acquisition includes six A330-300s, expected to enter service by mid-2027, and at least three A320s, with deliveries beginning as early as 2025.
Currently, Discover Airlines operates a mix of fourteen A320-200s and ten A330-300s according to ch-aviation. As part of the fleet upgrade, the airline also plans to refurbish the cabins of its existing A330-300s. This refurbishment will introduce a new business class cabin design, offering direct aisle access from all seats, and enhanced seating in both premium economy and economy classes. Further details on the new cabin configurations are expected to be announced in the near future.
Lufthansa Group’s CEO, Carsten Spohr, during a recent quarterly earnings call, highlighted that the fleet renewal for Discover Airlines also includes evaluating the addition of cutting-edge technology aircraft like the Boeing 787s or Airbus A350s. These considerations underscore the group’s commitment to maintaining a modern and competitive fleet.
This comprehensive fleet overhaul reflects Lufthansa Group’s proactive approach to adapting to industry changes and positioning Discover Airlines for sustained growth and success in the competitive aviation market. The focus on modern, efficient aircraft will not only improve the airline’s operational efficiency but also enhance the overall passenger experience, making it well-equipped to meet the demands of today’s travelers.
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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com, Discover Airlines