Why Lufthansa's 2033 Widebody Decision Is Really A Referendum On Boeing's Troubled 777X

Lufthansa’s 2033 widebody decision is being framed as a referendum on Boeing’s troubled 777X program, with the German carrier reportedly planning a direct head-to-head between aircraft makers. Lufthansa Chief Executive Carsten Spohr said last month the airline will launch a competition next year to secure additional Airbus A350-1000s or Boeing 777-9s for deliveries from 2033, according to Aviation Week. The planned order size has not been specified, but reports indicate it would be for only one aircraft type. Lufthansa is also mid-way through its largest fleet renewal and originally did not consider the A350-1000 under earlier plans. The 777X has faced major setbacks, including at least seven years of delay and pending certification. Lufthansa previously ordered 10 A350-1000s in 2023 after earlier interest in other models.