Let's start this blog review by taking a trip down memory lane. This flight took place at the end of the pandemic when people were uncertain about air travel. I decided to see if Europe's only 5-star airline could restore our faith in flying, and here's what I experienced.
The legendary Queen of the skies, known for its luxurious long-haul travel in the 20th century, was my top choice for this journey. What made it even more special was that I was assigned an upper-deck seat, a unique feature that sets the 747 apart from other planes.
For this review, I will focus on the FRA-SIN leg of the flight, as it originates from Lufthansa's hub and provides the most accurate representation of their service standard.
My journey began at the new Berlin Brandenburg airport, where the check-in process was incredibly smooth, thanks to the limited number of flights. The connecting flight to Frankfurt on Eurowings was short and uneventful. It was in Frankfurt where my 13-hour journey on the Queen of the skies began.
The boarding process was well-organized, with priority given to Senator members, first-class passengers, and then business class passengers. As I settled into my upper deck seat, a sense of excitement washed over me. Sitting in the seat that holds so much aviation history, aboard the plane that revolutionized air travel, was a truly special feeling.
The business class seat itself had a dated design, with a 2-2 layout on the upper deck, where only the aisle seat had direct aisle access. However, the seat was comfortable and spacious, with ample storage bins both overhead and along the cabin's edges.
The in-flight entertainment system showed signs of its age, with an outdated screen that could benefit from modernization and higher resolution, especially when compared to its competitors. The selection of programs was somewhat limited, but they did have some of the latest blockbusters for passengers to enjoy.
On this overnight flight, I didn't dedicate a significant amount of time to exploring the in-flight entertainment system. Instead, I made the most of the opportunity to get some restful sleep. As expected from a 5-star airline, I had no doubt that this flight would offer a world-class experience. To my delight, I was presented with a beautifully designed amenity pack, a collaboration with none other than Porsche Design, a favorite designer label among Germans. The attention to detail was evident, and the reusable bag provided a practical keepsake that I continue to use to this day.
When it came to dining, there was a fantastic selection of food and drinks on offer, highlighting the unique and delectable cuisine of Germany. As the flight was at full capacity, it was understandable that the service was somewhat slower than usual. However, the flight attendants managed to fulfill all of my orders, ensuring that I had a satisfying dining experience.
Opting for the beef option for both the entree and the main course, I was pleased to find that the meals were not only visually appealing but also tasted fresh and were expertly prepared. The flavors were well-balanced, demonstrating the airline's commitment to providing a high-quality culinary experience.
Throughout the flight, the presence of an unattended bar cart seemed to invite passengers to help themselves to their favorite drinks. This self-service option added a level of convenience and choice, allowing passengers to enjoy their preferred beverages at their leisure.
While the flight attendants were undoubtedly professional and efficient in their duties, I did notice a slight absence of the warm, easy-going friendliness that one might expect from a top-tier airline. Nevertheless, their professionalism ensured that all passengers' needs were met, creating an overall pleasant and comfortable journey.
After a smooth landing in Singapore, I couldn't help but reflect on the overall experience of flying on the iconic Boeing 747 with Lufthansa. It was truly a memorable journey, and I found their long-haul business class offering to be a solid effort. The comfort and service provided were commendable, leaving me with a positive impression of the airline.
However, it is important to consider that, due to the age of the cabin, there are other airlines that offer more attractive options on the same route at lower prices. While Lufthansa's service was top-notch, cost-conscious travelers may find better value for their money with alternative carriers.
Nevertheless, the exciting news is that Lufthansa has plans to breathe new life into their 747s with the Allegris Cabin in the near future. This refurbishment project promises to bring a fresh and modern look to the aircraft, along with enhanced amenities and features. With this upgrade, Lufthansa aims to offer a more competitive product for passengers traveling between Europe and Asia.
I am genuinely looking forward to seeing the results of this cabin transformation. It will undoubtedly elevate the overall experience and make Lufthansa a more compelling choice for travelers seeking a premium long-haul journey. With the Allegris Cabin on the horizon, Lufthansa's future flights between Europe and Asia hold the promise of even greater comfort, style, and value.
From
Frankfurt am Main, Germany
Aircraft Type
Boeing 747-8i