European airlines facing crisis: Lufthansa rolls out limited cleaning to cut costs
European airlines are experiencing a severe crisis and face potential bankruptcy. From March 16 to 29, Lufthansa will implement a “limited cleaning” approach on about 20 European routes, cleaning toilets only upon request and disposing of trash from seat pockets as needed. The number of cleaners inspecting cabin cleanliness will be halved from 4 to 2.
A total of 4,000 jobs are planned to be cut. Cleaning “as needed” is just one of several cost-saving measures. Previously, Lufthansa eliminated free seat selection depending on fare and reduced onboard catering for economy passengers, now providing only a small bottle of water and a piece of chocolate. Additionally, the airline has started strictly enforcing hand luggage size at boarding, allowing placement only via an online terminal.
Lufthansa, founded in 1953, is one of Europe’s largest airlines, renowned for its high standards of service and global operations. The company is now forced to take drastic steps to stabilize its financial situation.
The aviation sector is rapidly changing under economic pressures; Lufthansa aims to optimize costs to avoid bankruptcy and maintain competitiveness.
These stringent measures are expected to impact passenger service quality but may be necessary to save the airline amid a highly challenging business environment.
