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Read all about it: Lufthansa Bids Adieu to Duty-Free Sales on Long-Haul Flights
Pour one out for fragrances, smokes, and shades, folks, as Lufthansa, the big dawg behind Austrian Airlines, has pulled the plug on in-flight sales of these goodies during their long-haul journeys. Don't worry, though, you can still get your shopping fix at the airport or through their online sales!
Per the obligatory spokesperson, this move is all about economic reasons—the profits they were raking in from selling perfumes, cigarettes, and sunglasses on board just weren't enough to offset the high costs associated with stocking up on these items. With a decrease in demand and rising procurement costs, it seems Lufthansa's onboard mini-mall simply wasn't a money-maker anymore.
As of September 2025 (mark your calendars), there will be no more onboard sales across their entire network. Shorter flights have already been exempt from this change, but hey, who needs a new pair of shades when you're dodging security checks, am I right?
Other German airlines, like TUIfly and Condor, aren't jumping on the bandwagon just yet. Tourist flights, particularly to sunny locals like the Canary Islands, are seeing high demand, making onboard sales an important part of the travel experience. Lufthansa is changing things up across the board, though, with new products and procedures being tested on long-haul flights.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) will also play a role in their overhaul—simply scan your tray when you're done with your meal, and the AI will analyze whether you've actually eaten it or not. The system will then use that information, along with factors like flight route and meal concept, to optimize portion sizes and food selection.
Lufthansa isn't looking to save a buck here; they're aiming to enhance the passenger experience. Expect an upgrade in food and beverage offerings on long-haul flights, starting in the Economy class. The higher classes will get their turn in the coming months. It's all about putting their best foot forward to keep you, the customer, happy!
References:1. Deutsche Welle2. Bloomberg3. Airport Agency4. aeroTELEGRAPH
- Lufthansa's decision to discontinue onboard duty-free sales on their long-haul flights is particularly influenced by financial and business factors.
- The procurement costs of these items, coupled with a decrease in demand, have made Lufthansa's onboard retail an unprofitable venture.
- While other German airlines, such as TUIfly and Condor, continue to offer duty-free sales, Lufthansa is increasingly relying on technology, like artificial intelligence, to enhance the passenger experience, especially in food and beverage offerings.
- Moreover, Lufthansa is not just looking to save costs, but to offer a better experience overall, with plans to upgrade food and beverage offerings, especially in the Economy class, on long-haul flights.
