The Lufthansa Airbus A340-600 is a versatile aircraft that offers a range of seating options to accommodate different passenger needs, from luxury First Class to affordable Economy. With its well-thought-out cabin configuration and variety of amenities, this aircraft ensures a comfortable and enjoyable journey for all travellers. Whether you prioritize privacy, extra legroom, or budget-friendly options, there’s a seat on the A340-600 that seems to be perfect for everyone.
Unique Feature Onboard the Airbus A340-600
A unique feature of the Airbus A340-600 is its bathrooms located on the lower deck, an unusual design choice that frees up more cabin space on the main deck. This clever layout not only provides additional room for seating and service areas but also contributes to a quieter and more spacious cabin environment, enhancing the overall passenger experience.
A Treat in the Skies
For aviation enthusiasts, flying on the Airbus A340-600 is a special treat in the skies. This aircraft, like the Lufthansa aircraft type Boeing 747 – 8 is a four-engine design and is becoming increasingly rare as airlines transition to more fuel-efficient twin-engine models. As one of the few remaining operators of the A340-600, Lufthansa offers passengers a unique opportunity to experience a piece of aviation history. The aircraft’s spacious cabins, quiet performance, and smooth ride make it a nostalgic journey for those who appreciate the golden age of air travel.
Cabin Configuration Overview
The Lufthansa Airbus A340-600 is configured in a four-class layout, featuring First Class, Business Class, Premium Economy, and Economy Class. This setup allows Lufthansa to cater to various passenger preferences, from the luxurious amenities of First Class to the affordability and comfort of Economy.
Lufthansa currently operates two configurations of the A340-600:
297-seat configuration:
8 First Class
44 Business Class
32 Premium Economy
213 Economy Class
281-seat configuration:
8 First Class
56 Business Class
28 Premium Economy
189 Economy Class
The key differences in the second configuration are:
- An increase in Business Class seats from 44 to 56
- A slight decrease in Premium Economy seats from 32 to 28
- A more significant reduction in Economy Class seats from 213 to 189
This second configuration reflects Lufthansa’s strategy to offer more premium seating on some routes, catering to increased demand for business travel on certain long-haul flights.
First Class Cabin
The First Class cabin on the Lufthansa Airbus A340-600 is designed for the ultimate luxury experience. With only 8 seats arranged in a 1-2-1 configuration, every seat has direct aisle access, ensuring privacy and ease of movement. The seats in this cabin are spacious, offering a seat pitch of 81 inches and a width of 31 inches, which transforms into a fully flat bed. This makes it perfect for long-haul flights where comfort and rest are priorities.
This open-plan layout offers alot of space however it does not offer the complete privacy found in newer designs of the Airbus like Qatar Airways’ QSuites. In fact having travelled extensively on Emirates EK 409 – A380, I think you would get more privacy just on the standard business class seats tucked away next to the window.
In addition to the generous seating, First Class passengers are treated to a range of exclusive services, including personalized meals, premium wines and champagnes, and high-end amenity kits. The cabin also features large, high-definition screens for inflight entertainment, noise-cancelling headphones, and ample storage space for personal belongings.
Let’s not forget the limousine service at the airport which drives first class passengers on the tarmac to their aircraft. What a treat.
Lufthansa is part of the Star Alliance and as such business and first class passengers get to use lounges around the world that are part of this network. This opens up a whole new experience when travelling. For example the Turkish Airlines Lounge at Istanbul Airport is a lounge available for use, for Lufthansa passengers travelling in business or First.
Business Class Cabin
Lufthansa’s Business Class on the A340-600 is designed with comfort and productivity in mind. The cabin features 44 seats in a 2-2-2 configuration, providing direct aisle access to most passengers. For those on the window side – yep, you have to climb over the passenger next to you to get to the aisle.
The Business Class seats can be converted into fully flat beds, allowing for a restful sleep during long flights.
Seats are equipped with a variety of features, including adjustable headrests. Passengers can also enjoy the state-of-the-art inflight entertainment system, which includes a large personal screen, a wide selection of movies, TV shows, music, and games, as well as USB ports and power outlets for charging devices. Additionally, Business Class passengers receive priority boarding, access to Lufthansa lounges, and an enhanced dining experience with a variety of gourmet meal options.
Premium Economy Cabin
The Premium Economy cabin on the Lufthansa Airbus A340-600 offers an upgraded experience from the standard Economy Class, focusing on extra comfort and additional amenities. Similar to the premium economy on the a340 300, the cabin is arranged in a 2-3-2 configuration, with 32 seats offering more space and privacy compared to Economy Class. Each Premium Economy seat provides additional legroom and a greater recline.
Passengers in Premium Economy are also treated to enhanced service, including a welcome drink upon boarding, a higher baggage allowance, and priority boarding. The seats come with footrests, larger personal screens for inflight entertainment, and improved meal options served on tableware. This class is ideal for travellers seeking more comfort than Economy Class without the higher cost of Business Class.
Economy Class Cabin
The Economy Class cabin on the Lufthansa Airbus A340-600 is configured in a 2-4-2 layout, with 213 seats designed to offer comfort and value for long-haul travellers. The cabin is equipped with personal seat-back screens, providing access to a comprehensive inflight entertainment system that includes movies, TV shows, music, and games.
Economy Class passengers are offered complimentary meals and beverages, with special meals available upon request. Despite being the most affordable option, Lufthansa’s Economy Class aims to provide a comfortable and pleasant journey with attentive service and modern amenities.
Best Seats Lufthansa A340-600
- First Class: All seats are excellent, but solo travellers may prefer window seats for added privacy and views.
- Business Class: I opt for the upper to middle section on any plane when travelling business. Its quieter yet in reach of galleys and bathrooms. I also like to get served amongst the first so I can sleep faster if it’s a night flight. If travelling solo, I would opt for an aisle seat given you have to jump over the person next to you if on a window seat. My pick is Row 4 or 5.
- Premium Economy: Front row seats 25 & 22 on respective configurations has extra legroom. Exit Row 25 on one configuration.
*Be Mindful of Row 26 its windowless! 🥴 - Economy Class: Extra legroom seats (Row 28 & 31 on respective configurations).
Seats in the exit row (row 43)
Remember that seat preferences can vary based on individual needs and priorities. For example, some travellers who suffer from anxiety when travelling prefer to be closer to lavatories or the galley where cabin crew are within reach.
Summing Up
Flying on the Lufthansa Airbus A340-600 offers a unique and nostalgic experience that contrasts with the modern, sleek lines of newer aircraft like the Airbus A350. While the A350 is celebrated for its fuel efficiency, advanced aerodynamics, and state-of-the-art technology, the A340-600 retains a classic charm with its four-engine design and spacious cabins.
The A340-600 provides a distinctive travel experience, particularly with features like the lower deck bathrooms that free up space on the main deck, enhancing cabin comfort. For travellers who appreciate the character and history of older aircraft, the A340-600 represents a rare opportunity to enjoy a flight that combines comfort and a sense of aviation heritage. Despite the advances in aircraft technology, Lufthansa’s A340-600 remains a beloved choice for those looking to experience a different era of air travel, reminding us that sometimes, the journey is just as important as the destination. And if you are doing the journey for free on business or first class thats even more rewarding.
Safe travels and remember never post your boarding pass on social media as there are great risks in doing so.
