Robust Performance Lifts Lufthansa in First Quarter of 2006

Lufthansa put in a sturdy performance in the first three months of 2006 despite record-level oil prices. In the traditionally weak first quarter, the Group result improved by 15.5 percent to €98 million.

The operating result totaled €75 million, a whole lot better than the €26 million the air carrier grabbed in the first three months of 2005. Changes in the pay settlement and long-term lease agreements will save around 50 million dollars yearly.

Lufthansa will continue pursuing its strategy of offering attractive prices coupled with the highest quality. It has since April been offering round-trip fares starting at €99 on flights from Germany to all European destinations, the front office reported last week in a press release.

Lufthansa has also made gains in premium business. Following its great success in Central Europe, the Lufthansa Private Jet service is now also available for flights to and from airports in the entire Russian Federation.