Excessive weight of premium cabin seats on Lufthansa affiliates.
The Swiss Air unit, Swiss, is undergoing a fleet modernization project, focusing on First Class. The new seats, set for implementation in 2025, are so substantial that they necessitate adding weight counterbalances in the Economy Class section of the aircraft. This adjustment has significant implications.
During a chat with press, Swiss Air representative Meike Fuhlrott mentioned the trend in the aviation industry is to provide increased privacy in First and Business Class cabins. This shift in focus results in increasingly heavy seats for First Class, while Economy Class seats become lighter. This discrepancy in weight distribution causes a shift in the aircraft's center of gravity.
To correct this balance issue on particular aircraft types like the Airbus A333, lead plates will be installed. Unfortunately, a planning oversight within the Lufthansa group is the cause of this situation, as initially reported by "CH Media" newspapers.
According to Swiss Air, the preliminary estimated weight of the seats is provided when orders are placed. However, the actual weight becomes known only after everything is installed. This means the additional weight brings about higher fuel consumption, which poses a challenge in meeting customer demands, economic efficiency, and environmental concerns.
To fulfill customer wishes for absolute privacy in First Class suites on long-haul trips, Swiss Air is prepared to introduce them. Yet, the heavier weight could potentially impact the trip's range, possibly affecting flights to destinations like Miami or Mumbai, according to a Swiss Air pilot.
- The Swiss Air unit, being based in Switzerland, is known for prioritizing luxury and comfort, as evidenced by their ongoing fleet modernization project focusing on First Class.
- Despite the benefits of the new First Class seats, Swiss Air should consider the potential impact on fuel consumption and aircraft range, given that Switzerland is committed to reducing its carbon footprint.
