Lufthansa starts super jumbo flights between Delhi, Frankfurt

After Singapore Airlines and Emirates, German carrier Lufthansa today launched daily services of its super jumbo Airbus A-380s between Delhi and Frankfurt. The first A-380 of the premier European carrier landed at the IGI Airport here in the wee hours and was given a traditional welcome by water cannons. Delhi also became the first Indian city to welcome Lufthansa's flagship aircraft.

It has 520 seats (8 in First Class, 92 in Business Class and 420 in Economy Class). "It's a milestone event for us and we are very pleased to welcome the world's largest commercial passenger jet which offers the finest in terms of flying comfort, luxury and efficiency.

"With the new A380, Lufthansa customers will be able to experience Lufthansa's latest in-flight products and services including the latest business class and state-of-the art First Class," said Lufthansa's Director of South Asia Wolfgang Will.

Lufthansa already operates A330, A340 and B747 on its routes from Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai and Bangalore to Europe and B737 from Pune. It has announced a limited period, pre-launch pricing campaign on November 7, 8 and 9 offering discounted fares to passengers flying from India to North America.

The A380 is the largest and heaviest passenger aircraft in the world. The megaliner is quieter than other planes, uses less fuel and can even "think" for itself and automatically apply the brakes after landing on the runway, said a statement issued by Lufthansa.